Official State Dances of the United States
Beyond flags and state birds, many jurisdictions across the United States have adopted official dances as part of their state symbols. This tradition of codifying cultural movement extends not only to the states but also to U.S. territories and the District of Columbia, reflecting the diverse heritage and social history of different regions.
A significant trend emerged in the 1970s when a concerted campaign by square dancers sought to establish square dance—a folk dance for four couples arranged in a square—as the national dance of the United States. While a national designation was not achieved, the movement successfully influenced dozens of states to adopt it as their official state or folk dance.
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Key Facts
- Square dance is the most common official state dance in the U.S.
- The trend of adopting square dance gained momentum starting in the 1970s.
- Some states, such as California and North Carolina, recognize multiple official dances.
- The District of Columbia recognizes hand dancing as its official dance.
- Hawaii is the only state to recognize the Hula.
Regional Diversity in State Dances
While square dancing dominates the list, several states have chosen dances that reflect specific local cultures or immigrant histories. For example, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin both recognize the Polka, a lively Central European dance. In the South, clogging—a type of step dance—is recognized in Kentucky and North Carolina.
Some states distinguish between different categories of dance. North Carolina, for instance, recognizes clogging as its official folk dance and the Carolina shag as its official popular dance. Similarly, California recognizes West Coast Swing alongside square dance, which is designated as its official folk dance.
Unique Designations
Certain regions have adopted dances that are highly specific to their local identity. The District of Columbia's choice of hand dancing and Hawaii's adoption of the Hula highlight the intersection of state symbols and ethnic or regional heritage.
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Summary of Official State Dances
| State, District, or Territory | Dance | Year Adopted |
|---|---|---|
| Alabama | Square dance | 1981 |
| Arkansas | Square dance | 1991 |
| California | West Coast Swing / Square dance (Folk) | 1988 |
| Colorado | Square dance | 1992 |
| Connecticut | Square dance | 1995 |
| District of Columbia | Hand dancing | 1999 |
| Georgia | Square dance | 1996 |
| Hawaii | Hula | 1999 |
| Idaho | Square dance | 1989 |
| Illinois | Square dance | 1990 |
| Kentucky | Clogging | 2006 |
| Louisiana | Square dance | 1999 |
| Maryland | Square dance | 1994 |
| Massachusetts | Square dance | 1990 |
| Mississippi | Square dance | 1995 |
| Missouri | Square dance | 1995 |
| Nebraska | Square dance | 1997 |
| New Jersey | Square dance (Folk) | 1983 |
| North Carolina | Clogging (Folk) / Carolina shag (Popular) | 2005 / - |
| North Dakota | Square dance | 1995 |
| Oklahoma | Square dance | 1988 |
| Oregon | Square dance | 1977 |
| Pennsylvania | Polka | 1990 |
| South Carolina | Square dance (Folk) / The Shag | 1994 / 1984 |
| Tennessee | Square dance | 1980 |
| Texas | Square dance | 1994 |
| Utah | Square dance | 1994 |
| Virginia | Square dance | 2011 |
| Washington | Square dance | 1979 |
| Wisconsin | Polka | 1993 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which dance is most commonly recognized as a state dance?
Square dance is the most widely adopted state dance, largely due to a campaign in the 1970s to make it the national dance of the United States.
Do any states have more than one official dance?
Yes. For example, North Carolina recognizes both clogging (folk) and the Carolina shag (popular), while California recognizes both West Coast Swing and square dance.
Which state recognizes the Hula?
Hawaii is the state that recognizes the Hula as its official dance, adopted in 1999.
Are there any states without an official dance?
Yes, some states like Delaware and Minnesota do not have an official dance, although proposals (such as the Maypole in Delaware) have been introduced in legislative sessions.
What is the official dance of Washington, D.C.?
The District of Columbia adopted hand dancing as its official dance in 1999.