Did You Know?
National Dance Day falls on Saturday, September 20, 2025. It’s a day dedicated to honoring the joy, discipline, and community that dance brings. Whether you’re a teacher in a public school classroom or leading classes in a private studio, this day offers the perfect chance to highlight the power of movement.
What Is National Dance Day?
National Dance Day was founded in 2010 by So You Think You Can Dance co-creator Nigel Lythgoe and Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton. Their vision was to encourage Americans of all ages and abilities to embrace dance as both art and exercise.
Originally observed on the last Saturday in July, the date shifted in 2019 to the third Saturday in September. This move aligned better with the school year, making it easier for teachers and studios to incorporate celebrations into their schedules.
Why National Dance Day Matters
Dance is more than steps, it’s about health, culture, and creativity. Celebrating a national day dedicated to dance reminds us of its benefits:
- Physical health: Improves cardiovascular fitness, balance, flexibility, and strength.
- Mental well-being: Lowers stress, builds confidence, and supports memory.
- Community connection: Encourages collaboration and builds bonds between students, peers, and families.
- Cultural awareness: Highlights dance traditions from around the world.
(Related reading: Benefits of Dance Education)
How to Celebrate in the Classroom
1. Morning Warm-Up Routine
Start the day with a school-wide or classroom dance session. Use upbeat, age-appropriate music to energize students.
2. Dance Across the Curriculum
- Math: Use rhythm patterns for fractions or multiplication.
- Literacy: Act out story elements with movement.
- Social Studies: Introduce cultural dances from different regions.
(Explore more: How to plan a cross curricular dance lesson)
3. History of Dance
Teach students about the origins of National Dance Day, or spotlight legendary dancers who changed the art form.
4. Creative Projects
Let students choreograph short routines and present them at the end of the day. This builds teamwork and creativity.
5. Reflection Circle
Close the lesson with student reflections: How did dancing today make you feel?
(See also: 50 Affirmations for Dance Teachers)
How to Celebrate in the Studio
1. Special Themed Classes
Offer unique workshops—like “Broadway Jazz Night” or “Ballet Basics for Parents.”
2. Technique Through History
Take students on a timeline journey, starting with ballet foundations and flowing into jazz, hip-hop, or contemporary.
3. Open Studio Jam
Host a freestyle jam where dancers of all ages can move without judgment.
4. Mini Performances
Encourage small group performances and invite families to watch.
5. Social Media Dance Challenge
Launch a hashtag campaign such as #DanceDay2025 and encourage students to share short videos.
(Related article: Dance Goals for 2025: The Importance of Setting Goals as a Dancer)
Why Teachers and Studios Should Participate
- Boost Engagement: Students feel more connected when learning is active.
- Promote Wellness: Highlights dance as both fun and fitness.
- Marketing Opportunity: For studios, celebrating with community events can bring in new families.
- Celebrate the Art: Reinforces dance as a valuable part of education and life.
Closing Thoughts
National Dance Day 2025 is more than just a date on the calendar—it’s a reminder that dance belongs to everyone. Whether you’re teaching in an elementary school classroom or leading a bustling studio, this is your chance to celebrate movement, creativity, and community.
So, mark your calendars for Saturday, September 20, 2025. Gather your students, play the music, and let the joy of dance fill the room.
(You may also like: Affirmations for Dancers: The Power of Positive Thinking)
Happy Dancing!
Taylor B.
