DANCE PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
Get ready for an exhilarating Festival of dance! The National Folk Festival is one of the longest-standing gathering places for folk dance specialists and enthusiasts, featuring two dance venues where performances, workshops, and large social dance events run day and night throughout the five days of the Festival.
The interplay between live music and dance is key to the Festival dance program experience, where everyone is welcome to strut their stuff or come and try some steps for the first time. Collaborations are always highlights of the Festival resulting in unique experiences you won't find anywhere else.
Our dance program offers so many ways to get involved, whether it’s taking part, joining an ensemble, watching a display, calling a dance, or exploring something completely new.
Dance Ensembles: This year you can be part of English Rapper Sword, Appalachian Square Dance, or Indian Dance Ensembles.
Dance Calling: Share your skills in our special dance event Calling Around Australia where you can lead the floor from the mic!
Dance Composing: Enter your dance in the Traditional Social Dance Association of Victoria’s Dance Composers’ Competition.
Scroll down to discover some of the special dance events for 2026!
FESTIVAL BALLS
Celebrate with dance every night of the Festival. With 100-minute workshops before the ball you can learn first and then step into the fun. Jump straight in on Thursday when the Festival begins with the Welcome Dance and try a range of dance styles!
Thursday – Welcome Dance
A global journey to begin the Festival with a Scottish Country Dance, high-energy African dance from Bortier Okoe, and Appalachian Square Dance with Phil Jamison (USA).
Friday – Grand Bal (Balfolk)
Joyful French and European social dance traditions, with Tim Scanlan & Mana Okubo and caller David “Oddsocks” Wanless.
Saturday – Queer Ceilidh
A celebration for LGBTQIA+ folks and allies, with music from Shane Lestideau & friends.
Sunday – Bushrangers Ball
Marking 60 years of the Festival with Austral and the Dividing Range Dancers. Join the Festival Bush Band as part of our ensembles and perform on the night!
Monday – Appalachian Square Dance
Close the Festival in high spirits with international guest Phil Jamison. Keen to be part of it? Join the Appalachian Dance Ensemble.
Learn more about our 2026 Artists here:
Planning is well underway for the next Festival, 2-6 April 2026, which will include extra special events as the Festival celebrates 60 Years in 2026. Secure your tickets to see over 120 amazing artists from across Australia and follow the Festival on social media plus sign up to the Festival newsletter to hear who will be performing in 2026!
