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Ecstatic Dance Festival UK 2026

22nd - 26th July

A sober summer gathering of dance, music, nature and wellbeing

Full Festival: Wed 22 – Sun 26 July 2026
Weekend Pass: Fri 24 – Sun 26 July 2026
Gillingham, North Dorset

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Spring Ecstatic Dance Retreat
Ecstatic Dance Festival UK

about ecstatic dance festival uk 2026

The Experience

Ecstatic Dance Festival is a conscious gathering devoted to movement, music, nature connection and down-to-earth wellbeing. It’s a place to dance freely, rest deeply, and reconnect with what’s true in your body — supported by a respectful, sober container and a warm, open-hearted community.

Whether you’re new to ecstatic dance or already steeped in embodied practice, you’ll find a programme that’s both nourishing and alive: guided movement, live music, yoga, breathwork, bioenergetics, sound, saunas, shared meals, campfires and plenty of space to integrate in your own way.

What's On?

Ecstatic Dance Sessions

Multiple Ecstatic Dance Sessions over the week

Ecstatic Dance Festival UK
Live Afro-Brazillian band

Live band URUBU playing twice daily

Nightly Dance Parties

Night time DJ session dance party till late

Trance Dance

Shamanic Trance Dance (limited spaces)

Daily Cacao Ceremonies

Lovingly made by Diana Upite

Daily Yoga Sessions

Start your day with yoga

Singing Medicine

Heart Opening Singing Sessions

Bioenergetics & Breathwork

Transformational Breath Workshops

Partner Yoga

Partner Yoga Workshop

Gift An Experience
Authentic Relating

Workshops to deepen connections

Movement Workshops

Deepen your practice with movement workshops

Sauna Sessions

Sauna & Cold Plunge sessions daily

Sound Journeys

Rest & Reset

Gong Baths

Gong Baths for Rest & integration

1:1 Bodywork sessions

Additional massages & bodyworkers

Tickets Available

Super Earlybird: £400 | Earlybird: £440 | Regular: £480 | Weekend only: £260
(4 nights / 5 days)

Full Festival

Wed 22 – Sun 26 July
Arrival from 4pm · Departure after 4pm
Includes full programme + 12 meals + camping spot + sauna sessions.

(2 nights / 3 days)

Weekend Pass

Fri 24 – Sun 26 July
Arrival from 4pm · Departure after 4pm
Includes weekend programme + 6 meals + camping spot + sauna sessions

ecstatic dance festival uk 2026

Co-create with us (applications)

Applications are now open to co-create this year’s programme.
We’re inviting ecstatic dance DJs, musicians, facilitators, performers, yoga and sound practitioners, and bodyworkers / massage therapists to bring their work into the heart of the festival.

Apply by 1 April 2026

ecstatic dance festival uk 2026

Ecstatic Dance

At the heart

This festival is anchored in the dance floor; a place to meet yourself honestly through rhythm and movement.

You’ll be guided through multiple ecstatic dance sessions across the festival, each with its own tone and arc. Some are fierce and playful. Some are tender and inward. Some are pure sweat-and-smiles. And because we’re in nature, the space itself becomes part of the music: open skies, trees, sunsets, campfire glow.

Live music with URUBU Dance Tribe brings a direct, human pulse: the kind you feel in the chest before you even think about it.

Testimonials

See What Our Past Participants Had to say

It was quite possibly the most beautiful thing that has ever happened to me.
I felt it was such a time of growth for me. I learned so much about connection with others and myself. Love and respect for all. I have returned home more patient, more accepting, less uptight. I have learned to breathe. I feel more powerful as a human.

Caroline

I would like to share what a lovely experience I had at the festival. The variety of workshops complemented the dance sessions so well but what really stood out was the sense of community around the site and the strength of the friendships that formed. There were profound experiences at every turn and moments of pure magic.

Neil

Something which felt so rapturous were the morning dances under the sun, before we met in our pod groups. I frequently went into states of bliss and awe at what felt like a profound honouring of the natural world. Even now as I write it feels difficult to express the feeling of the ‘ecstaticness’ that was experienced. So I am grateful for the timely sonic sounds that you played and the space to dance bare foot under the sun. 

Georgie

Ecstatic Dance London

The Venue

The Leela Personal Development Centre

Our retreat takes place at The Leela Personal Development Centre in Gillingham, Dorset — a peaceful, heart-led community set among rolling fields and ancient trees.

The grounds offer:

  • three indoor workshop spaces
  • marquee and opportunities for outdoor sessions
  • beautiful nature, walking trails and open skies
  • wood-fired sauna (evenings + select daytime sessions)
  • cosy communal areas, sofas & hangout spaces
  • a vegetarian kitchen serving delicious meals
  • showers, toilets & power sockets throughout
  • an onsite coffee & cake shop run by the Leela community

Camping is included, with upgraded accommodation available.

The venue is just a 10-minute drive from Gillingham station, an easy 2-hour direct train from London. Free car parking is available, and we provide a WhatsApp lift-share group for attendees.

Ecstatic Dance Festival UK
Ecstatic Dance Festival UK

about ecstatic dance festival uk 2026

The Container

We care about the culture as much as the programme.

Ecstatic Dance Festival UK is:

  • Alcohol-free and drug-free
  • Rooted in consent, respect and self-responsibility
  • Welcoming to first-timers, solo travellers, and a wide range of bodies and ages (18+)

You’re invited to move how you wish, rest when you need, and relate with care. If you come alone, you won’t be the only one — many people arrive solo and leave feeling part of something.

ecstatic dance festival uk 2026

Practical Information

Location & Travel

The Leela Centre, Thorngrove House
Common Mead Lane, Gillingham, Dorset SP8 4RE
(10 minutes by car from Gillingham station)

It’s an easy journey from London — roughly 2 hours direct by train, then a short taxi ride (typically under £10 one way). We’ll share local taxi details closer to the time.

Parking is free on site. We strongly encourage lift shares to reduce cars and make the arrival gentler on the land.

A WhatsApp group for travel coordination (car shares / taxis / train arrivals) will be shared a few weeks before the festival.

What Your Ticket Includes
  • All workshops, ecstatic dance sessions and cacao ceremonies
  • A camping spot (bring your own camping gear)
  • Car parking space
  • All meals (3 per day: 12 meals full festival / 6 meals weekend)
  • Sauna sessions (small sauna towels provided)
  • Unlimited teas and coffee available in the main house
  • Filtered drinking water refill access
What's Not Included

To help you plan with ease, there are a few things that aren’t included in your festival ticket. Travel to and from the site isn’t covered, and any bodywork or massage sessions are booked and paid directly with the practitioners during the festival. You’ll also find a lovely on-site café offering extra treats — think good coffee, cake, and other tasty creations — along with personal snacks you may wish to bring for in-between moments. Everything essential is taken care of; these are simply optional extras to enjoy if and when you feel called.

Food & Nourishment

3 Meals a day included in your ticket. Meals are vegetarian/vegan, clearly labelled, and the kitchen can usually support common requirements such as gluten-free, lactose-free and vegan. The venue may not be able to cater for more specialised diets — please share dietary needs when booking.

There’s also a café/healthy bar open at certain times for extras like coffee and sweet treats.

We’d advise you to bring some snacks in case you get peckish between meals.

Accommodation & Upgrades

Camping is included in your ticket. If you’d like more comfort, upgrades are available (from 20 January, via the venue booking link).

Options include:

  • Campervan space (from £10/night + power if needed)
  • Shared dorms / deluxe dorms
  • Bell tents (standard or deluxe)
  • Private rooms and private pods

Please note: Weekend accommodation may be limited, as priority is given to full-festival attendees.

Example Daily Rhythm

To help you picture the flow, here’s a sample day:

  • Morning: gentle active meditation or yoga
  • Breakfast
  • Late morning: gathering, ecstatic dance, sharings, workshops
  • Lunch + dishes help
  • Afternoon: sauna / bodywork / workshops / rest time
  • Dinner + dishes help
  • Evening: ecstatic dance or workshops
  • Late: campfire / sauna / music / quiet hangout

The exact schedule will vary — we keep some flexibility so the festival can breathe.

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Ecstatic Dance Festival UK 2026

22nd - 26th July

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Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re new to the Ecstatic Dance Festival UK, it’s completely natural to have a few questions. This space is intentionally gentle, welcoming, and open to all bodies and levels of experience.  If you’re still unsure or simply want to connect, you’re always welcome to reach out. We’re a friendly bunch, and we’re happy to support you.

What is the Ecstatic Dance Festival UK 2026?

The Ecstatic Dance Festival UK 2026 is a multi-day sober movement gathering held in Dorset, bringing together DJs, live musicians, facilitators, bodyworkers and conscious community members. The festival focuses on ecstatic dance, embodiment practices, wellbeing workshops and nature connection within a consent-based, alcohol-free environment.

Where is the Ecstatic Dance Festival UK held?

The Ecstatic Dance Festival UK takes place in Dorset, in the South West of England at the Leela Personal Development Centre. The venue is set in countryside surroundings approximately two hours from London, offering indoor workshop spaces, outdoor areas and on-site accommodation including camping and rooms.

Is the Ecstatic Dance Festival UK a sober event?

Yes, the Ecstatic Dance Festival UK is a fully sober and drug-free event. Alcohol and recreational substances are not permitted. The festival culture prioritises presence, nervous system safety and conscious connection without external stimulants.

What happens at an ecstatic dance festival?

An ecstatic dance festival typically includes multiple dance journeys led by DJs and musicians, embodiment workshops, yoga, breathwork, sound healing sessions and facilitated group experiences. The Ecstatic Dance Festival UK also includes community rituals, integration spaces and opportunities for rest.

Do I need experience to attend the Ecstatic Dance Festival UK?

No prior experience is required to attend the Ecstatic Dance Festival UK. Both beginners and experienced dancers are welcome. Clear guidelines are shared at the start of each dance to help everyone understand the non-verbal, consent-based format.

What are the rules at the Ecstatic Dance Festival UK?

Ecstatic dance events usually follow three core guidelines: no talking on the dance floor, no shoes, and no alcohol or drugs. The Ecstatic Dance Festival UK also emphasises consent, respectful boundaries and shared responsibility for community wellbeing.

Is ecstatic dance spiritual?

Ecstatic dance can feel spiritual for some participants, but it is not affiliated with any religion. The Ecstatic Dance Festival UK creates space for personal reflection and expression, while remaining inclusive of people from all belief systems or none.

What should I wear to an ecstatic dance festival?

Comfortable, breathable clothing suitable for movement is recommended. Most people dance barefoot or in socks. Layers are useful for outdoor areas or evening temperature changes. There is no dress code beyond comfort and respect.

Is accommodation included in the ticket price?

Camping is included in standard festival tickets, while dorms, private rooms and alternative accommodation options are available at additional cost. Availability varies and is reflected on the ticketing page for the 2026 festival.

Can I attend the Ecstatic Dance Festival UK alone?

Yes, many people attend alone. The Ecstatic Dance Festival UK encourages an inclusive community atmosphere, and structured workshops and dance spaces naturally support connection without pressure.

Is the Ecstatic Dance Festival UK suitable for families?

Most ecstatic dance festivals are adult-focused environments. The suitability for families depends on the specific 2026 event structure and safeguarding guidelines. The Ecstatic Dance Festival UK 2026 is 18+

Are there workshops as well as dance sessions?

Yes, the Ecstatic Dance Festival UK includes workshops alongside dance journeys. These may include yoga, embodiment practices, sound sessions, nervous system education and facilitated group experiences designed to complement the dance floor.

What makes the Ecstatic Dance Festival UK different from other UK festivals?

The Ecstatic Dance Festival UK is distinct in its sober culture, consent-based container and focus on movement as ritual rather than performance. It prioritises embodied practice, ethical facilitation and conscious community over entertainment-driven programming.

How do I prepare for an ecstatic dance festival?

Preparation can include resting beforehand, staying hydrated and arriving with openness to movement and community. There is no choreography to learn. The emphasis is on listening to your body and respecting others’ boundaries throughout the festival.