DANSAND!: Dance · Contemporary dance
DANSAND! is a weekend of contemporary dance on the beach, the seafront and through the streets of Ostend, presented by arts centre KAAP.
About DANSAND!
DANSAND! turns Ostend into an open-air stage: for one weekend, the beach, the seafront promenade and the streets of this seaside town host Belgian and international choreographers for a programme of contemporary dance, performance and installations. Organised by KAAP, a contemporary arts centre based in Ostend and Bruges, the festival stands out for its unexpected settings — far from traditional theatres — and its accessible, largely free atmosphere. A unique way to discover contemporary dance, between the North Sea and the city.
Why go to DANSAND!?
Nowhere else in Belgium do you experience contemporary dance this close to the sea. DANSAND! takes dance out of theatres and onto the sand, the seafront and unexpected corners of the city — as accessible as it is surprising.
What to expect at DANSAND!
A weekend of short performances scattered across the city, installations to discover while wandering, encounters with the artists, and a relaxed atmosphere where audience and dancers constantly cross paths.
The festival in detail
History of DANSAND!
In 2024, DANSAND! celebrated 15 years of existence. In 2025, the festival held its 9th edition under the theme ‘Why We Dance’, with the opening of a new landmark venue, the Dansba’r, on the site of Ostend’s former open-air swimming pool.
★ Festivals.be insider tip
Don’t look for a single stage: DANSAND! is best experienced as a ‘treasure hunt’ across Ostend. Wear comfortable shoes, grab the full programme as soon as it’s online, and let yourself be surprised by spontaneous performances on the seafront — often the most memorable moments.
