DanceBlue returns to Rupp Arena for 2026 Marathon
LEXINGTON, Ky. (April 3, 2026) — In an effort to create more space, more dancer spots and more joy, the University of Kentucky DanceBlue team is returning to Rupp Arena for the 2026 Marathon. The 24-hour annual event, which serves as the culmination of a year-long fundraising effort, begins 8 p.m. Saturday, April 18.
As DanceBlue continues to grow and expand its reach, the DanceBlue chair team sought to take another step forward in increasing DanceBlue’s opportunity.
“The decision to move back to Rupp Arena was carefully considered with all of our stakeholders in mind,” said Morgan David, DanceBlue marketing chair. “Our community is at the core of every choice we make. We are excited to continue growing our relationship with Rupp Arena. Moving the marathon to a larger venue ultimately means that more individuals can experience the joy and witness our mission. This increases the capacity of what we are able to do for our clinic and families, which is always our number one goal.”
The return to Rupp Arena marks a significant milestone in DanceBlue’s history. Following a milestone 20th anniversary in 2025, the student-run organization continues to grow, marking a need for venues with a larger capacity.
Since its inception, DanceBlue has raised more than $25 million, providing essential support for pediatric cancer research and patient care, making it one of the largest student-run philanthropies in the South-Eastern Conference. The 24-hour, no-sitting, no-sleeping marathon serves as a powerful symbol of the resilience shown by the children and families battling cancer.
DanceBlue is currently seeking volunteers for the 2026 marathon; interested parties can register via the official portal. Whether through dancing, volunteering or donating, every contribution helps Joy Prevail and provides support that changes lives across the Commonwealth
To learn more about how to get involved or support the 2026 fundraising efforts, visit the DanceBlue Instagram (@uk_danceblue), Facebook page (DanceBlue) or the official website at www.danceblue.org.
As the state’s flagship, land-grant institution, the University of Kentucky exists to advance the Commonwealth. We do that by preparing the next generation of leaders — placing students at the heart of everything we do — and transforming the lives of Kentuckians through education, research and creative work, service and health care. We pride ourselves on being a catalyst for breakthroughs and a force for healing, a place where ingenuity unfolds. It's all made possible by our people — visionaries, disruptors and pioneers — who make up 200 academic programs, a $476.5 million research and development enterprise and a world-class medical center, all on one campus.