The most iconic event in collegiate cheerleading and dance is staying put. Varsity has announced that the NCA & NDA Collegiate Cheer and Dance Championship will remain in Daytona Beach through 2030. This extension marks a continuation of nearly three decades of tradition, with the 2026 event set to celebrate the 30th year of competition on Florida’s famed coast.
Hosted annually at the Ocean Center and the picturesque Daytona Beach Bandshell, the championship is widely regarded as the pinnacle of collegiate cheer and dance. In April 2025, more than 470 collegiate teams from across the nation gathered in Daytona to compete, with the city welcoming thousands of athletes, coaches, and fans—transforming the beachside into a high-energy showcase of athleticism, artistry, and school spirit.
“We are thrilled that the NCA & NDA Collegiate Cheer and Dance Championship will continue to call Daytona Beach home through 2030,” said Lori Campbell Baker, Executive Director of the Daytona Beach Area Convention & Visitors Bureau. “This event has become a beloved tradition, and its impact goes far beyond the competition floor.”
From unforgettable performances on the Bandshell stage to the now-legendary ocean trophy celebrations, “Daytona” has become a rite of passage for college cheerleaders and dancers. The partnership with Daytona Beach has provided a unique blend of high-level competition and a scenic, celebratory atmosphere that is unmatched in the sport.
“Daytona has been one of the most iconic and prestigious events on the NCA and NDA calendars for almost three decades,” said Bill Seely, President of Varsity Spirit. “We’re excited to continue our journey with a city that has become part of the championship’s DNA.”
The extended agreement also reflects Daytona’s growing appeal as a sports tourism hub. With strong support from local hospitality, the city utilized 38 hotel partners during the 2025 event, contributing significantly to the local economy while showcasing its vibrant and evolving coastal destination.
“This is a tremendous affirmation of the energy and hospitality our city brings to this iconic event year after year,” said Daytona Beach Mayor Derrick Henry. “We look forward to welcoming the next generation of student-athletes and fans to our world-famous beach.”
Behind the scenes, the Ocean Center continues to be a cornerstone of the event, offering state-of-the-art facilities and a longstanding commitment to hosting memorable moments.
“Our partnership with NCA and NDA is part of the Ocean Center’s legacy,” said Lynn Flanders, General Manager of the venue. “We’re proud to continue that tradition through 2030.”
As the countdown begins for the 2026 milestone championship, which will run April 8–11, the cheer and dance community has even more reason to celebrate. The future of this iconic event is as bright as the Florida sun—shining down on decades of tradition, excellence, and the unwavering spirit of competition.
Follow Cheer Daily for continued coverage leading up to the 30th anniversary in Daytona!
