At a Glance
- The 74-stop Dancing with the Stars Live tour starts in Akron, Ohio on Jan. 22, 2026.
- Season 34 contestants, including winner Robert Irwin, will make surprise appearances.
- The tour will return to Akron on May 13, 2026, closing the 2026 season’s celebration.
Why it matters: Fans get a chance to see their favorite stars perform live and meet special guests, marking the end of a record-breaking season.
The 74-stop Dancing with the Stars Live tour kicked off on Thursday, Jan. 22, 2026, in Akron, Ohio, and will continue through May 13, 2026, before concluding back in the city where it began. The tour celebrates the most recent season of the ABC show, bringing the excitement of televised dance competitions to live audiences across the country. The schedule spans 74 stops, giving fans in multiple cities a chance to experience the spectacle up close.
The tour’s opening night featured a mix of familiar faces and new performers. Season 34 contestant Danielle Fishel joined professional dancers Val Chmerkovskiy and Jenna Johnson as a celebrity guest performer. Fishel’s appearance added a fresh dynamic to the show, and her collaboration with the pros was highlighted in behind-the-scenes footage. The cast’s enthusiasm during rehearsal was captured in a series of photos that show the performers in comfortable backstage outfits.
Special appearances are planned throughout the tour, adding extra excitement for fans. Winner Robert Irwin, along with runner-ups Alix Earle, Jordan Chiles, Elaine Hendrix, and Dylan Efron, will make surprise appearances at selected stops. Their presence is expected to boost ticket sales and create memorable moments for audiences. The tour organizers have confirmed that each appearance will be announced on the day of the performance.
Behind the scenes, the tour’s cast gathered for a pre-show pump-up that showcased their camaraderie. The group raised their hands to the sky, cheering for the opening night and displaying the high energy that defines the live experience. A series of photos captured the cast in their most comfortable outfits during rehearsal, providing fans with a glimpse of the preparation that goes into each show.
During the tour, several dance numbers were highlighted by the cast’s interactions. In one segment, Pasha Pashkov, Danielle Fishel, and Emma Slater engaged in a lively conversation onstage, demonstrating the chemistry between former dance partners. Another number featured Slater and her boyfriend Alan Bersten, who shared intense chemistry during their routine. The audience enjoyed the combination of professional choreography and personal connections.
The tour’s choreography also showcased the talents of the professional dancers. Val Chmerkovskiy and Jenna Johnson performed an elegant couple’s dance that was praised for its precision and artistry. Pasha Pashkov carried Johnson during an easy lift, adding a dramatic flourish to the routine. The cast’s performances were filmed for exclusive behind-the-scenes footage that will be shared with fans.
Fans can anticipate a variety of performances throughout the tour. The ensemble piece concluded with a fierce pose, while the cast took a bow after a show-stop number. The tour’s final act included a round of applause for the performers, reinforcing the sense of community among the dancers and their supporters. The cast’s dedication to delivering high-quality performances was evident in each routine.
The tour’s schedule is designed to maximize reach across the country. The first stop in Akron was chosen to honor the show’s origins and to celebrate the record-breaking season. The final stop on May 13, 2026, returns the tour to Akron, closing the 2026 season’s celebration in the city where it began. The 74-stop schedule ensures that fans in multiple regions have the opportunity to attend a live performance.
The tour’s production team has worked closely with the cast to coordinate special appearances. The timing of each appearance has been carefully planned to align with the tour’s overall schedule. Fans are encouraged to stay tuned for announcements on the day of each performance, as the tour’s schedule may include additional surprise guests.
The tour’s success is a testament to the popularity of the show and the dedication of its cast. The record-breaking season has created a surge in demand for live performances, and the tour’s 74 stops reflect that enthusiasm. The inclusion of special appearances by season winners and runner-ups adds an extra layer of excitement for fans.
The tour’s behind-the-scenes footage provides insight into the performers’ preparation. The cast’s enthusiasm during rehearsal, their camaraderie during the pre-show pump-up, and their interactions onstage all contribute to the overall experience. Fans can expect a blend of professional choreography, personal connections, and surprise appearances that make each show unique.
The tour’s final performance in Akron will mark the end of the 2026 season’s celebration. Fans who attend the final stop will witness the culmination of a season that has captivated audiences across the country. The tour’s schedule, special appearances, and performances all contribute to a memorable experience for fans and performers alike.
The tour’s impact extends beyond the stage. By bringing the show’s excitement to live audiences, the tour reinforces the cultural significance of dance competitions. The inclusion of special appearances by season winners and runner-ups highlights the show’s community spirit. The tour’s 74-stop schedule demonstrates the show’s commitment to reaching fans nationwide.
The tour’s success will be measured by fan engagement, ticket sales, and the enthusiasm displayed by the cast. The tour’s production team has prepared for a seamless experience, ensuring that each performance meets the high standards expected by fans. The tour’s schedule, special appearances, and behind-the-scenes footage provide a comprehensive view of the live experience.
The tour’s final performance will be a celebration of the show’s legacy and its ongoing influence. Fans will witness the culmination of a season that has captured the hearts of viewers across the country. The tour’s 74-stop schedule, special appearances, and performances create a memorable experience that will be remembered for years to come.
