COMPETITION RESOURCES

Everything You Need for Your First Feis

A feis (pronouced "fesh") is an Irish dance competition. We're with you every step of the way, from your first class to the championship stage.

What is a feis?

Dancers compete solo in their age group and level, performing dances such as Reel, Light Jig, Slip Jig, Treble Jig, and Hornpipe — judged by CLRG-certified adjudicators.

Organized by age and CLRG level
Results posted by placing (1st, 2nd, 3rd...)
Placing out of a level advances dancer to next
Ceili and group events run alongside solo events

What to wear

Costume, footwear, and appearance vary by level. Beginners are not required to have full solo costumes.

Beginner–Novice: school or practice dress acceptable
Prizewinner+: solo costume strongly recommended
Hard shoes for treble jig, hornpipe, reel
Soft shoes (ghillies) for light jig, slip jig
Competition wigs worn by most competitors

How to register

Feis registration is done online. Your teacher will advise on which feiseanna are appropriate for your dancer's level and location each season.

Create an account on the feis registration platform
Confirm your dancer's CLRG level with your teacher
Register for all applicable dances at your level
Pay registration fees
Download syllabus card and competition schedule.

Day of Preparation

Competition days can be long and exciting. Preparation ensures your dancer performs at her best and genuinely enjoys the experience.

Review schedule the evening before
Pack shoes, laces, bobby pins, and hairspray
Bring snacks, water, and entertainment for wait times
Arrive at stage at least 15 minutes early
Warm up lightly — avoid over-practicing
Celebrate the performance, always

We will provide you with more information in class.

Irish Dance Magazine

Community resource for Irish dance news, competition results, costuming guides, and discussion — excellent for families new to the feis world.

VISIT IRISH DANCE MAGAZINE

IDTANA

Irish Dance Teachers Association of North America — find upcoming competitions, championships, and scholarship opportunities for dancers in the US.

VISIT IDTANA

CLRG

The governing body for Irish dance worldwide. Verify teacher certifications, view rule books, and find championship information.

VISIT CLRG