Welcome to our 30th annual York Festival of Traditional Dance, celebrating the many and varied styles of traditional dance in the UK. Over the years we have had support from more than 130 visiting teams from across the country and beyond.
For two days in September York will come alive once again to the sound of jingling bells, clashing sticks, tapping clogs, and rhythmic tunes. There will be the spectacle of 150 brightly costumed dancers and musicians performing a variety of different styles. If you are not familiar with traditional dance, or you are but want to see more, then please come along and enjoy the skilful displays of dance that are part of our heritage.
The event starts at 10:30 on Saturday 9th September with a procession from St. Helens Square and along Davygate to Parliament Street. Teams will then dance in Kings Square, St. Sampsons Square, St. Williams College, and Parliament Street .
From 3:30 to 5pm there is a grand showcase in St. Sampsons Square, where each team will perform a display dance for the Lord Mayor and the Civic Party.
On Sunday 10th the dancing will continue in the centre of York between 11am and 1:30 pm.
Teams this year are Ebor Morris, Acorn Morris, Minster Strays, Customs & Exiles, Brackley Morris, Rampant Rooster, Southport Swords, Redcar Sword, Black Diamond Morris, Richmond on Swale Morris, Pateley Longsword, Lizzie Dripping, Waters Green, Westmorland Step & Garland.
With thanks to our sponsors: Acorn Instruments, Red Cow Music, Browns Cafe-Restaurant, the Black Swan Inn, and Inc-Dot printers
