Dance Competitions Directory

Pole Sport

Athletic pole competitions judged on strength, technique, flexibility, and artistry.

Ballroom & Latin

DanceSport events across standard, Latin, and ten-dance formats.

Burlesque

Showcase competitions celebrating classic and neo-burlesque performance art.

Aerial Arts

Silks, lyra, and mixed aerial competitions at regional and international level.

Open Style

Multi-discipline and freestyle competitions open to diverse performance styles.

International — Pole Sport

IPSF World Pole Championships

The International Pole Sports Federation’s annual world championship — the highest level of competitive pole sport. Categories include men’s, women’s, doubles, and youth. Athletes qualify through national federation events. Held in a different host city each year.

USA — Pole Sport

USPDF National Championships

The United States Pole Dance Federation’s national competition series, with regional qualifiers leading to the annual national championship. One of North America’s most prestigious pole competitions, with divisions for all levels from amateur to professional.

International — Ballroom

Blackpool Dance Festival

The world’s most prestigious ballroom and Latin competition, held annually in Blackpool, England since 1920. Considered the ultimate benchmark for competitive dancers — a Blackpool title is the highest honour in DanceSport. Attended by thousands of competitors and spectators from over 60 countries.

USA — Burlesque

The Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekender

Las Vegas’s annual celebration of burlesque heritage, featuring the Miss Exotic World pageant and showcase competitions across classic, neo, and boylesque categories. The most important event in the international burlesque calendar, drawing performers from around the world.

Australia — Pole Sport

Pole Championships Australia (PCA)

Australia’s peak pole sport competition body, running state-level championships that feed into the national titles. PCA champions represent Australia at IPSF World Championships. Divisions cover all levels from beginner through elite, and both pole sport and pole art categories.

International — DanceSport

WDC World Championships

The World Dance Council’s annual world championship series across standard and Latin disciplines. The definitive title for professional ballroom and Latin competitors, with categories including Amateur, Youth, Senior, and Professional. Finals held across multiple European venues annually.