International Dance Day has been celebrated since 1982, initiated by the International Theatre Institute under the UNESCO.

It marks the anniversary of the birth of French ballet dancer and choreographer Jean-Georges Noverre (1727–1810), the creator of modern ballet.

Each year, the International Dance Committee and the Executive Council of the International Theatre Institute select a choreographer or dancer to deliver a message for the occasion. In 2026, the author of the message is Canadian choreographer Crystal Pite.

The team of the European Association of Folklore Festivals extends its greetings to all choreographers and dancers!