World Lindy Hop Day occurs on May 26, and we are preparing to hit the dance floor. There is no better way to generate positive emotions than by dancing, particularly if you’re doing it in the right setting with the right music. That is the essence of Lindy Hop. A dancing form that has endured the test of time by uniting people and spreading joy.
HISTORY OF WORLD LINDY HOP DAY
Lindy Hop — also known as Jitterbug — is an American dance style that first appeared in the 1920s, when big bands became prominent. It combines European dance style traditions such as turns and embraces with African body postures. Harlem, New York City, can also be identified as its geographical origin.
Curiously, its name derives from a trend that emerged following Charles Lindbergh’s successful transatlantic flight in 1927. Numerous chefs, musicians, and business owners paid tribute to the courageous American aviator by titling their creations and establishments after him.
The dance evolved alongside its accompanying music. These musical genres are descended from the Charleston and the swing. During the 1930s, dance ensembles such as the Harlem Congaroos and Hot Chocolate performed at exhibitions to popularise the Lindy Hop. Also depicted in “Hellzapoppin'” were Lindy Hop dancers.
Lindy Hop has experienced a revival since the mid-1980s, when influential choreographer and performer of the time, Swing Legend Frankie “musclehead” Manning, popularised it. World Lindy Hop Day was created in recognition of his contributions.
Today, Lindy Hop communities can be found in a great number of cities across the globe. One of the most notable examples is the Swedish municipality of Hrrang, which is home to the Hrrang Dance Camp, a renowned gathering of Lindy Hop enthusiasts.
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5 SWINGIN’ FACTS ABOUT LINDY HOP
It is influenced by other dance forms.
Lindy Hop is believed to have been influenced by Texas Tommy and Charleston.
As seen on TV!
A television episode of “Ally McBeal” featured Lindy Hop performers.
It is taught everywhere in the world
From Los Angeles to Moscow, there are dance academies and professional Lindy Hop competitions.
It has numerous variants
The form of the Lindy Hop is determined by your dancing speed. It could be traditional, Hollywood-style, or Savoy-style.
It contains air stages
An air step is a dance move in which both feet depart the ground.
WORLD LINDY HOP DAY DATES
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | May 26 | Friday |
| 2024 | May 26 | Sunday |
| 2025 | May 26 | Monday |
| 2026 | May 26 | Tuesday |
| 2027 | May 26 | Wednesday |
