Dances Styles Around the World

In celebration of National Dance Day, discover the many forms of dance all over the world! Dance is an essential aspect of many cultures, and even if you do not speak the local language, you can easily learn to move your feet. If dancing is not your forte, you can also watch the professionals at performances and festivals.

Pack your dancing shoes, book your flight, and get ready to boogie all around the globe!

Brazil: Samba
China: Lion Dance
Spain: Flamenco
India: Bhangra
Cuba: Salsa
Austria: Viennese Waltz
Argentina: Tango

Brazil: Samba

Widely popularized due to its connection to Carnival in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, the Samba music style will make you want to get up and move! Emerging from the influence of African dances and rhythm, Samba combines colorful costumes, swinging hips and rapid footwork into the most significant dance style of Brazil’s culture and history. No matter where it is performed, Samba celebrates the vibrance and joy of life!

China: Lion Dance

This traditional dance has origins from early dynasties in China, and is mainly seen during Chinese New Year and other celebrations. One dancer holds the multicolored head of the lion costume, and the other dancer acts as the hind legs. By moving in sync concealed by the vibrant lion costume, the dancers appear as a real animal, complete with blinking eyes and an opening mouth. This dance symbolizes good fortune for the coming year!

Spain: Flamenco

When one thinks of Flamenco, the image of a woman in a ruffled red dress with a lace fan and a large flower in her hair probably comes to mind. As one of the most prominent dance styles on the streets of Spain, this style consists of stomping and clapping to the melody of a Spanish guitar and beautiful singing. The passionate dance originated from the gypsies from Andalusia in South Spain hundreds of years ago, and is widely considered a treasured art form today.

India: Bhangra

Bhangra is an energetic style from Punjab, India that has become very recognizable internationally, often featured in Bollywood films and international performances. Starting as a celebratory dance during the harvest many years ago, this style includes boldly colorful costumes and lively, active dance moves that often hold deep significance and symbolism. The music always incorporates the dhol drum, and dancers can have props as well.

Cuba: Salsa

The Salsa was created through the combination of existing dance and music styles from Africa, Spain, Cuba, and other parts of Latin America. It gained massive popularity in the United States in the 1900s, and has become one of the most prominent styles in international competitions, dance clubs, and festivals. The Salsa usually features intricate footwork, a brisk tempo and quick hip movements, but there are many different variations to this beloved dance.

Austria: Viennese Waltz

Characterized by seamless and quick turns, firm posture, and the signature “one, two, three” time count, the Viennese Waltz is one of the most historic ballroom dance styles performed internationally. The Viennese Waltz originated in 18th century Europe, and became associated with the politics and culture of Vienna. You probably recognize this style from movies and TV dance competitions, and many forms of the Waltz have developed from this original style.

Argentina: Tango

As one of the most popular and recognizable dances in the world, the Tango might take more than a few lessons to master. Originating from the lower classes of Buenos Aires in the 19th century, this dance style spread to the upper classes in Argentina and beyond, eventually expanding its influence worldwide. Not only is the Tango comprised of the graceful movement and meticulous harmony between the two partners, it also involves deep emotion and expressiveness.

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