USA Dance Nationals

February 18-20, 2027 | Anaheim Convention Center

Anaheim CA

USA Dance Nationals

About USA Dance Nationals

USA Dance Nationals began in 1986. The event takes place in Anaheim, CA and draws teams from throughout the western United States, and farther. Nearly 2,000 competitors and nearly 4,000 spectators are expected over this fun-filled and exciting weekend, vying for the Champion title in one of over 30 different divisions. It is the premier event of its type in the western U.S. for the variety of styles that take the floor and the caliber of performances that are presented.

2026 Dance Nationals Information

GENERAL INFORMATION/EVENT PAPERWORK

GENERAL INFORMATION

2026 Dance Nationals Guidelines

PERFORMANCE ORDERS

2027 Information coming soon!

WATCH LIVE

Varsity TV is your destination for the very best in school and all star cheer and dance coverage. Click here to join Varsity TV and watch this event live.

TOP REASONS TO ATTEND USA DANCE NATIONALS

Top Reasons to attend the 2025 USA Dance Nationals:

  • Hosted and operated by the United Spirit Association – professional staff, organized event with consistent, highly-trained, industry-experienced judging panels
  • Prize Money Presented — Solo and Team Scholarships & Awards
  • National Champions are awarded USA Championship Backpacks, Placement Medallions, a team Trophy and custom Banner

QUALIFICATION INFORMATION

QUALIFICATION INFORMATION

  • All Team Divisions – prior qualification through a USA Regional/Classic competition or other sanctioned event/process is required in order to attend Dance Nationals in any team division.
  • 75% of the team competing at USA Nationals must complete Varsity Spirit/NFHS Squad Credentialing (this includes junior high teams). The best way to get credentialed is at a Varsity Spirit Summer Camp. More information about this can be found here or by contacting your Varsity Spirit State Director.
  • Bids to Nationals are awarded to teams receiving 80% of total possible points for all Championship divisions and 75% of total possible points for all other team divisions, regardless of any penalties received.
  • If a team qualifies for Nationals two or more times (80% of total possible points, regardless of any penalties received) in the Championship level at a Regional/Classic competition, then they must compete in the Championship level at Nationals.
  • Solos at Nationals (5 maximum per school) – Each school can enter 1 dancer into the Solo Champion division.  The Super Dancer will now be split by grade level.  Each school will be allowed to enter 1 dancer into the Senior division, 1 dancer into the Junior division, and up to 1 sophomore and 1 Freshman into the Sophomore/Freshman division.
  • If your team is located in area without a live regional, please attend a USA dance Virtual Competition to qualify routines for USA Dance Nationals..

EVENT HOUSING

Beginning in 2027, USA Dance Nationals will be designated as Housing Required. This means that all athletes and coaches are required to book with Team Travel Source. This change helps ensure the best rates, convenient locations, and a smoother experience for all attendees.

What to Expect:

  • Athletes competing 2+ days that are over 75 miles, and athletes competing 1 day that are over 150 miles are required to book with TTS.
  • Guaranteed access to top hotels at the lowest available rates.
  • Exemptions available for military/government discounts or rewards points.
  • Dedicated specialists to help with team blocks.
  • A full Customer Experience team to support you throughout the booking process.

While we know this is a change, we’re committed to making your travel easier, affordable, and more consistent. More details coming prior to registration opening.

USA DANCE DIVISIONS & RULES

Please visit our Divisions, Rules & Scoring page to view the 2025-2026 competition information!