Sanremo Dance Festival
The great international dance festival on the stage of the Ariston Theatre
About Sanremo Dance Festival
Dance takes centre stage at the Ariston
The Sanremo Dance Festival is the major dance competition that enlivens the Ariston Theatre in Sanremo (province of Imperia) every spring. Organized by CSEN (National Sports and Educational Centre) in collaboration with the Municipality, it brings together thousands of dancers and dozens of schools from Italy, Europe, and South America.
Record-breaking numbers
The festival features hundreds of choreographies in numerous disciplines: classical, contemporary, modern dance, choreographic composition, and open style. Alongside the competition, workshops with internationally renowned masters offer young dancers the opportunity to train with professionals from prestigious institutions such as the Royal Ballet and the Nederlands Dans Theater.
A celebration for the city
More than just a competition, the Sanremo Dance Festival is a grand celebration of dance that involves the entire city, with the traditional final flash mob in front of the theatre and spaces dedicated to young Ligurian talents. An event that reinforces Sanremo's role as a capital of entertainment, far beyond the Song Festival.
Sanremo Dance Festival — edition 2026
The 18th edition takes place from May 1 to 3, 2026, at the Ariston Theatre, with record-breaking figures: 1,850 dancers, 97 schools from Italy, Europe, and South America, and 451 choreographies. The event was sold out even before registration closed.
The jury brings together internationally renowned choreographers and artists with experience in institutions like the Royal Ballet and the Nederlands Dans Theater. Organized by CSEN, with the patronage of the Liguria Region and CONI.
Programme Sanremo Dance Festival 2026
Friday, May 1
- Workshops with masters from the international jury;
- Modern and Festival categories (a tribute to Sanremo's musical tradition).
Saturday, May 2
- Classical and contemporary dance sections.
Sunday, May 3
- Choreographic composition and open style categories;
- 'Tutti Ballano Sanremo', a showcase for young Ligurian talents;
- Final flash mob in front of the theatre.
Highlights Sanremo Dance Festival 2026
Prices Sanremo Dance Festival 2026
Practical information — Sanremo Dance Festival
Getting there
The Ariston Theatre is in the centre of Sanremo, reachable on foot from the train station. By car, take the Sanremo exit on the A10 motorway.
Admission
Competition reserved for registered participants; evening shows open to the public with tickets. The final outdoor flash mob is free.
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Where does it take place — Sanremo Dance Festival
Teatro Ariston
Via Matteotti 212, 18038 Sanremo