31st International Ballet Festival of Miami Returns with 10 Spectacular Performances Across South Florida
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The 31 International Ballet Festival of Miami (IBFM), under the artistic direction of Eriberto Jiménez, returns from July 25 to August 16, 2026, continuing a proud tradition of excellence. Recognized as one of the most important ballet festivals in the United States, the IBFM welcomes over 100 artists each year from internationally renowned ballet and contemporary dance companies across Europe, South America, Asia, and North America, many making their U.S. debut.
This highly anticipated summer event features ten performances across Miami Beach, South Miami, Broward, and Miami, and a range of vibrant cultural activities including art exhibitions, book presentations, film screenings, master classes, workshops, and more. The festival has received critical acclaim both nationally and internationally, establishing Miami as a global hub for dance and culture.
The Opening Night Celebration takes place on Saturday, July 25 at 7:00 p.m., featuring a VIP reception and the unveiling of the official IBFM poster, designed by Camilo Rubio and illustrated by this year’s featured Cuban artist, Carlos Guzman. The evening will also include an exhibit of the artist’s works “The Magic of Dance”. In addition, the unveiling of the Festival’s “A Life for Dance” Lifetime Achievement Award statuette, created by Mexican sculptor David Carmorlinga, will take place at the Miami Hispanic Cultural Arts Center.
From July 20 to August 7, the festival hosts its International Ballet Summer Intensive, welcoming students from several countries.
From July 31 – Aug. 2, the IBFM presents its Young Medalists Performances, highlighting the rising stars of dance youth medalists from prestigious international competitions:
July 31 at 8:00 p.m.: Free outdoor performance at Lincoln Road
August 1 at 8:00 p.m.: Performance at Manuel Artime Theater
August 2 at 1:00 p.m.: Dance Marathon, a free showcase of local talent at the Bayfront Park, Tina Hills Pavillion
From August 6–9, the festival spotlights Contemporary Dance Performances featuring innovative companies from Italy, Dominican Republic, Mexico, and the USA offering a bold blend of music and movement:
August 6 at 6:00 p.m.: Free outdoor show at Lincoln Rd
August 7 at 7:30 p.m.: Manuel Artime Theater
August 8 at 8:00 p.m.: Dennis C. Moss Cultural Arts Center
August 9 at 5:00 p.m.: Amaturo Theater, Broward Center for the Performing Arts
The festival culminates with two Grand Classical Galas at the Fillmore Miami Beach featuring principal dancers from Brazil, Canada, Colombia, Italy, Mexico, Uruguay and the U.S
August 15 at 8:00 p.m.: “Grand Classical Gala”, with the presentation of the IBFM Lifetime Achievement Award, presented to outstanding worldwide renowned ballet dancers, choreographers, and directors for their exceptional contributions to the world of dance.
August 16 at 5:00 p.m.: “Closing Gala”, presenting a new program by all guest artists and awarding the “Criticism and Culture of Dance” Award honoring the most important national and international dance critics.
Art is a labor of love it takes more than passion to bring it to life. Join us in celebrating this unique cultural event that honors the beauty, power, and artistry of dance.
For tickets and more information, please visit www.internationalballetfestival.org