About International Dance Day
International Dance Day is observed on 29 April. It was created in 1982 by the Dance Committee of the International Theatre Institute, a UNESCO partner, to celebrate dance and encourage people everywhere to value it as a universal art form.
International Dance Day was started in 1982 by the Dance Committee of the International Theatre Institute, which works in partnership with UNESCO. The date, 29 April, is the birthday of Jean-Georges Noverre, the French dancer and ballet master whose ideas shaped modern ballet.
The day aims to bring dance to wider audiences and to remind governments and institutions that dance deserves support in education and culture. Each year a well-known figure from the dance world writes a message that is shared around the world.
How it is marked
Dance schools, academies and companies hold open classes, performances and workshops. Schools and colleges organise competitions and invite performers to demonstrate different styles. India has a rich mix of classical forms such as Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Kathakali, Kuchipudi, Odissi, Manipuri, Mohiniyattam and Sattriya, as well as countless folk and contemporary styles, and the day is a good time to thank the gurus and students who keep them alive.
What to write
Mention the dancer's style, their stage or the teacher who shaped them, and keep the tone joyful.
- To my guru, thank you for every correction, every rhythm and every bit of patience. Happy International Dance Day.
- Still thinking about your solo at the annual function. Happy Dance Day to my favourite performer.
- Whether it is Kathak or kitchen dancing, keep moving and keep smiling. Happy International Dance Day.
How to wish someone on International Dance Day
the joy of movement, the dancers and teachers in our lives and the many dance traditions we share
Write a few lines in your own words, pick a design and share it as one link on WhatsApp, Instagram or anywhere else. They open an animated card made just for them, with no app and no sign-up.
Language tip: English, Hindi + recipient language.
Frequently asked questions
Why is International Dance Day on 29 April?
29 April is the birthday of Jean-Georges Noverre, the eighteenth-century French ballet master regarded as the creator of modern ballet. The International Theatre Institute chose the date when it started the day in 1982.
How can schools mark International Dance Day?
Schools can hold open dance sessions, invite local performers to show classical and folk styles, or run a class where students learn a short routine together. It is a good chance to include every student, not only trained dancers.
Which classical dance forms are recognised in India?
India's Sangeet Natak Akademi recognises eight classical dance forms: Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Kathakali, Kuchipudi, Manipuri, Mohiniyattam, Odissi and Sattriya.
When is International Dance Day in 2026?
International Dance Day 2026 falls on Wednesday, 29 April 2026.
What is International Dance Day?
International Dance Day is observed on 29 April. It was created in 1982 by the Dance Committee of the International Theatre Institute, a UNESCO partner, to celebrate dance and encourage people everywhere to value it as a universal art form.
Is International Dance Day a public holiday?
Holiday status for International Dance Day varies by state, employer and community in India, so check your local holiday list.
How do I wish someone on International Dance Day?
Focus on the joy of movement, the dancers and teachers in our lives and the many dance traditions we share. On Kehdoo you can write a short message, pick a design and share a free animated International Dance Day card as a single link, with no app or sign-up needed.
Sources
Last verified by the Kehdoo team on .