National Ballet Day, observed annually on February 7, recognizes ballet as both an art form and a physically demanding discipline. It draws attention to the years of training required of dancers, as well as the collaborative efforts of choreographers, musicians, and production teams involved in bringing a performance to the stage.
The observance does not have a formally documented origin. It appears to have developed gradually during the mid-2010s, following a noticeable increase in online interest in ballet, particularly after the global visibility created by World Ballet Day in 2015.
That year marked a shift in how ballet was shared with the public, as major companies and individual dancers began posting performances, rehearsals, and behind-the-scenes content across social media platforms.
When Is National Ballet Day Celebrated?
National Ballet Day is celebrated each year on February 7. The table below shows the upcoming dates, making it easy to plan ahead for this annual observance.
| Year | Date and Day |
|---|---|
| 2026 | February 7, Saturday |
| 2027 | February 7, Sunday |
| 2028 | February 7, Monday |
| 2029 | February 7, Wednesday |
| 2030 | February 7, Thursday |
Interesting Facts About Ballet
Ballet has evolved from royal court entertainment into a global performing art. These facts highlight how the discipline developed and how it continues to adapt today.
- Ballet terminology is largely in French. This tradition dates back to the 17th century, when King Louis XIV founded the Académie Royale de Danse and formalized ballet training in France.
- Pointe shoes are handmade and customized for each dancer. Dancing en pointe requires years of training and careful conditioning to perform safely.
- Ballet is not limited to classical music. Many modern choreographers combine ballet technique with contemporary music styles, including jazz and rock, expanding how ballet is performed and perceived.
- The Nutcracker is one of the most frequently performed ballets in the world. Many companies rely on annual holiday performances of the ballet as a major part of their season.
How People Celebrate National Ballet Day
- Watch a performance: Attend a live show by a local ballet company or watch professionally recorded performances online. Many major companies regularly share full productions or selected scenes through official platforms.
- Take a class: Dance studios often offer beginner or adult ballet classes designed for people with no prior experience, focusing on basic movement and posture.
- Explore ballet on film: Ballet-themed movies and documentaries provide insight into both the art form and the discipline behind it. Titles such as Black Swan, The Red Shoes, and Ballets Russes approach ballet from different historical and cultural angles.
- Support local arts: Many ballet organizations rely on community support. Donations, memberships, or ticket purchases help sustain training programs and future productions.
- Follow ballet online: Social media offers access to rehearsals, daily training routines, and behind-the-scenes content shared by dancers and companies, making ballet more accessible to wider audiences.
Other Dance-Themed Days
National Ballet Day is one of several observances that highlight the performing arts throughout the year, each focusing on different forms of movement and expression.
- National Dance Day recognizes dance in all its forms, including ballet, modern, jazz, hip-hop, and traditional cultural styles.
- National Tap Dance Day focuses on tap dance and its rhythmic techniques, honoring the history and influence of tap performers.
- International Dance Day celebrates dance worldwide as a shared cultural language that reflects history, identity, and human expression across countries.
