Daytona Beach has solidified its status as the premier destination for collegiate cheerleading and dance championships, thanks to a recently announced extension of its partnership with Varsity Spirit. This collaboration ensures that the Collegiate Cheer and Dance Championship, organized by the National Cheerleaders Association (NCA) and National Dance Alliance (NDA), will remain a cornerstone event in Daytona Beach through 2030. As one of the largest and most prestigious competitions in the collegiate cheerleading and dance landscape, this championship draws top teams from across the United States, enhancing both the competitive spirit and the community’s vibrancy.
In 2025, over 470 teams participated, supported by 38 local hotels, showcasing the scale and significance of this annual event. The championship not only highlights athletic prowess but also serves as a vital driver of tourism, significantly contributing to the economy of Daytona Beach. Local businesses, ranging from hotels and restaurants to retail shops, experience an influx of activity during this time, marking it as a critical highlight in Daytona Beach’s tourism calendar.
A Legacy of Excellence in Competition
The upcoming 2026 competition, scheduled from April 8-11, will commemorate the 30th consecutive year that Daytona Beach has hosted this esteemed championship. The event will once again take place at the iconic Daytona Beach Bandshell and the Ocean Center, venues that have become synonymous with the championship’s history and tradition. This long-term agreement between Varsity Spirit and Daytona Beach underscores the city’s unmatched facilities, robust community support, and commitment to providing an exceptional environment for both athletes and fans.
Daytona Beach has ingrained itself into the identity of this championship, creating a distinctive atmosphere that resonates with teams and spectators alike. The beach’s picturesque setting, coupled with the excitement of competition, fosters unforgettable memories for student-athletes, making the experience more than just a contest of skill—it becomes a celebration of achievement and camaraderie.
Economic Impact and Community Engagement
Beyond its athletic and cultural significance, the Collegiate Cheer and Dance Championship brings substantial economic benefits to the Daytona Beach area. The influx of participants and spectators generates considerable revenue for local businesses, providing a much-needed boost to the hospitality sector. Hotels, restaurants, and retail stores thrive during this period, contributing to a vibrant local economy.
Local leaders recognize the importance of this event. Lori Campbell Baker, Executive Director for the Daytona Beach Area Convention & Visitors Bureau, expressed her excitement about the championship’s continued presence in the city. “We are thrilled that the NCA & NDA Collegiate Cheer and Dance Championship will continue to call Daytona Beach home through 2030. This event has become a beloved tradition for both the teams and our community, delivering unforgettable moments to the student-athletes, such as hoisting the golden trophy in the Atlantic Ocean. Beyond the excitement and spirit, this event provides significant economic impact and positive national exposure that benefits our local businesses and hospitality partners. We’re proud to continue this partnership with Varsity and we look forward to hosting this prestigious championship event for the next five years – and hopefully well beyond.”
A Commitment to Excellence
Bill Seely, President of Varsity Spirit, emphasized the importance of Daytona Beach in the context of the championship. “Daytona has been one of the most iconic and prestigious events on the NCA and NDA calendars for almost three decades, and we are thrilled to continue to hold this event alongside such a great city and partner. We look forward to welcoming thousands of athletes again next April and building even more incredible moments and memories for our athletes in the years ahead.”
This sentiment is echoed by Lynn Flanders, General Manager of the Ocean Center, who noted, “Our partnership with NCA and NDA is more than just an annual event; it’s part of the legacy of the Ocean Center. For decades, we’ve watched unforgettable moments unfold on our floors and lifelong memories take place right here on our stage. We’re proud to continue that tradition through 2030 and to be the place where athletes, families, and fans come together to celebrate the spirit of competition in a truly one-of-a-kind coastal setting.”
A Vision for the Future
The enthusiasm surrounding the championship’s future is palpable among local officials and community members. Daytona Beach Mayor Derrick Henry expressed his gratitude for the continued partnership, stating, “I couldn’t be more thrilled and grateful that the NCA & NDA Collegiate Cheer and Dance Championship have chosen to continue calling Daytona Beach home through 2030. This is a tremendous affirmation of the energy and hospitality our city brings to this iconic event year after year. We’re honored by their confidence and look forward to welcoming student-athletes, coaches, families, and fans from across the country to our world-famous beach for many more unforgettable competitions.”
As Daytona Beach gears up for the next five years of hosting the NCA & NDA Collegiate Cheer and Dance Championship, the city stands ready to embrace the energy, excitement, and community spirit that this event brings. With a rich legacy behind it and a promising future ahead, Daytona Beach is poised to remain the heart of collegiate cheer and dance, ensuring that every competition continues to foster unforgettable experiences for all involved. The partnership with Varsity Spirit not only enhances the city’s reputation as a premier sports destination but also reinforces its commitment to supporting athletes and promoting the values of teamwork, dedication, and excellence that collegiate cheerleading and dance embody.
