Dance Schools On Stage
The Dance Schools On Stage is a showcase, for which international and Finnish dance schools are selected. The showcase is not a competition, but the purpose is to offer the dance schools and the public a glimpse into different dance genres and levels.
Savonia stage
Come and enjoy daily performances at the Savonia Stage in Kuopio Market Square, including shows by dance enthusiasts and students. The stage also hosts Meet & Greet sessions, where you can meet artists featured in the festival’s main programme.
For dance groups: applying 5.1.–6.4.2026
Carnival parade on Monday 8.6.
The carnival parade brings color, southern European carnival spirit and the thrill of dance to the city’s streetscape. The parade is a playful competition where the best groups are awarded. Prizes are sponsored by Osuuskauppa Peeässä.
The Dance Jam in the Enchanted Forest
The Dance Jam in the Enchanted Forest is a joyful dance session for preschool-aged children, held in the stunning Enchanted Forest at the Shopping center Minna, inspired by Finnish nature.
No pre-registration.
Dance challenge
In the Dance Challenge, well-known people from Kuopio have been invited to take part in dance classes in the name of charity. Each participant attends ten dance lessons and then showcases their skills in a dance performance.
The funds collected by the challenge’s partners are donated to a charity chosen by the winner.
The 2025 Dance Challenge was won by Eeva Mertanen together with her partner Riikka Keurulainen. The charity fund was donated to Mieli ry.
Wheelchair dance competition
Kuopion kieroon kelloojat ry and PYTLI ry organise the Kuopio Tanssii ja Kelloo wheelchair dance competition in connection with the festival.
The organizer reserves the right to make changes.