International Tap Dance Day

Tap dancing originated in the United States and is thought to have begun in the mid-19th century, with the rise of minstrel and vaudeville shows. This unique form of dance is a combination of Irish and British step (clog) dancing and African Juba dance. Early tap shoes had wood soles that tapped out the dance beat.

National Tap Dance Day falls on May 25 every year, and is a celebration of tap dance as an American art form. The idea of National Tap Dance Day was first presented to U.S. Congress on February 7, 1989, and was signed into US American Law by President George H.W. Bush, on November 8, 1989. The one time official observance was on May 25, 1989. Tap Dance Day is also celebrated in other countries, particularly Japan, Australia, India and Iceland.