Dances Around the World

People everywhere love to dance. Dancing can tell a story, celebrate a holiday, or just be for fun. Every culture has its own special dances. Some dances are slow and graceful. Others are fast and exciting.

Traditional Dances

In Hawaii, hula dancers move their hands and hips to tell stories. In Spain, flamenco dancers stomp their feet and clap their hands with great energy. In India, Bharatanatyam is a classical dance that uses the whole body to act out stories. In Ireland, step dancers keep their arms still while their feet move very fast.

Why People Dance

People dance for many reasons. Some dances are performed at weddings or harvest festivals. Native American powwow dances honor traditions and bring communities together. In Brazil, people dance samba during Carnival. Dancing is a joyful way to share culture and bring people closer together.

Fun Facts

• Hula was almost lost when it was banned in Hawaii in the 1800s, but it was saved and is now celebrated.
• Irish step dancers keep their arms straight at their sides while their feet do all the work.
• Ballet started in Italy over 500 years ago as a court dance for kings and queens.

Did You Know?

The Maori people of New Zealand perform a powerful dance called the haka. It was originally a war dance, but today it is performed to show pride and respect.