World Para Dance Sport Competition

During the Easter weekend, Amstelveen once again hosts the World Para Dance Sport International Competition. For the fourth time, this international wheelchair dance event takes place at sports hall De Meerkamp. From Friday, April 3 to Sunday, April 5, over 200 dancers take to the floor each day.

The three-day program kicks off on Friday with freestyle competitions. On Saturday and Sunday, standard and latin competitions take center stage. In addition, dancers compete in singles (Women and Men) and Power Wheelchair categories. Participants from 15 countries will attend, although two countries had to withdraw due to ongoing war-related travel restrictions.

Wheelchair dancing in the Netherlands

The event is organized by the Stichting Rolstoeldansen Nederland (SRN), active since 1981 and now representing over 150 local dance groups. The organization promotes wheelchair dancing through training, competitions, and events. More than 3,000 dancers participate weekly, ranging from recreational dancers to international elite athletes.

Top-level sport and enjoyment combined

According to Corrie van Hugten, who has been involved in wheelchair dancing in the Netherlands for over forty years, the event continues to evolve: “What touches me is that you see everything come together here: top-level sport, enjoyment, and people connecting through dance.” The fact that the event is held in Amstelveen for the fourth time highlights how well it fits the city.

International growth and development

The competition was held in Cuijk for many years before moving to Amstelveen in 2023. Since then, the number of international participants has grown, and the event has become a fixed part of the international dance calendar.

Support from the municipality

The organization is positive about its collaboration with the municipality of Amstelveen. This support allows the event to continue growing and developing further.

Wheelchair dancing is accessible to everyone, regardless of age or disability. The sport includes various forms such as duo, combi, solo, and formation dancing. Music and movement are central, with a strong focus on both athletic performance and social connection.

During the Easter weekend, Amstelveen hosts the World Para Dance Sport International Competition. For the fourth time, this international wheelchair dance event takes place at De Meerkamp, welcoming over 200 dancers daily from April 3 to 5.

Friday features freestyle competitions, while the weekend focuses on standard and latin events, alongside singles and Power Wheelchair categories. Participants from 15 countries will compete.

Top-level sport and connection

The event is organized by Stichting Rolstoeldansen Nederland (SRN), which promotes the sport nationwide. Thousands of dancers participate weekly, from recreational to elite level. “What touches me is that you see everything come together here: top-level sport, enjoyment, and people connecting through dance,” says Corrie van Hugten.

Since moving from Cuijk to Amstelveen in 2023, the event has become a fixed highlight on the international dance calendar.

Practical information

• Location: De Meerkamp, Amstelveen

• Dates: April 3–5

• Tickets: €20 per day