Traditional Irish dances called Ceilis combines traditional dancing and music. It was from these village dances that step dancing regained popularity.

Step dancing is a structured form that has groups of four single dancers or four pairs of dancers standing in a square. The dance is performed almost entirely with the legs and feet - the dancers' arms are usually held stiffly at their sides.

Performers of these dances often wear elaborate traditional costumes with Gaelic designs and ballet-type shoes that are laced over the feet and ankles.