The UK’s favourite glitter-filled extravaganza returns to heat up winter as Strictly Come Dancing Live takes over major UK arenas from January 23 to February 15, 2026. Packed with dazzling costumes, breathtaking choreography, and iconic live music from the Strictly tour band, the 2026 arena run promises to bring television’s most beloved ballroom competition directly to thousands of fans nationwide.
Whether you are looking for venue schedules, celebrity lineups, or tips on securing the best seats, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to plan an unforgettable live experience.
What Makes the Strictly Live Tour Special?
While millions tune in each weekend on television, the live tour brings a whole new layer of interactive magic. Arena audiences do not just watch—they participate.
- Live Audience Voting: While the judges provide their signature critiques and scorecards live, the final outcome rests entirely in the hands of the audience. Fans in attendance cast their votes via mobile phones during the performance to decide who walks away with the Glitterball Trophy at the end of every show.
- Unfiltered Entertainment: Directed by Craig Revel Horwood, the production offers hilarious behind-the-scenes banter, unfiltered judging commentary, and larger-than-life group numbers that cannot be replicated on a studio stage.
- Full Accessibility: To ensure everyone can enjoy the spectacle, every single performance features live British Sign Language (BSL) interpreters displayed on huge screens flanking the stage.
Strictly Come Dancing Tour 2026: Complete Schedule & Venues
The 2026 tour covers 30 sequin-studded shows across nine major UK cities. The road trip kicks off at Birmingham’s Utilita Arena and wraps up with a grand finale at London’s iconic O2 Arena.
| Venue Name | City | Dates | Total Shows |
| Utilita Arena | Birmingham | Jan 23 – Jan 25, 2026 | 5 Shows (Matinee & Evening) |
| Utilita Arena | Newcastle | Jan 27 – Jan 28, 2026 | 3 Shows (Matinee & Evening) |
| First Direct Arena | Leeds | Jan 29 – Jan 30, 2026 | 2 Evening Shows |
| AO Arena | Manchester | Jan 31 – Feb 1, 2026 | 4 Shows (Matinee & Evening) |
| Utilita Arena | Sheffield | Feb 3 – Feb 4, 2026 | 2 Evening Shows |
| M&S Bank Arena | Liverpool | Feb 5 – Feb 6, 2026 | 2 Evening Shows |
| OVO Hydro | Glasgow | Feb 7 – Feb 8, 2026 | 3 Shows (Matinee & Evening) |
| Motorpoint Arena | Nottingham | Feb 10 – Feb 12, 2026 | 3 Evening Shows |
| The O2 | London | Feb 13 – Feb 15, 2026 | 6 Finale Shows |
Star Celebrity Couples & Signature Dances
The 2026 lineup brings together a fan-favourite mix of media stars, TV personalities, and legendary athletes, pairing them with the show’s top professional dancers. Each couple performs two signature routines during the arena tour.
Confirmed 2026 Partnerships
- Harry Aikines-Aryeetey & Karen Hauer: Performing the Cha Cha and Salsa.
- George Clarke & Alexis Warr: Performing the Viennese Waltz and Charleston (Select dates).
- Lewis Cope & Katya Jones: Performing the Charleston and Couple’s Choice.
- Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink & Lauren Oakley: Performing the Quickstep and Cha Cha.
- Ellie Goldstein & Vito Coppola: Performing the Salsa and Couple’s Choice.
- La Voix & Aljaž Škorjanec: Performing the Paso Doble and Salsa.
- Vicky Pattison & Kai Widdrington: Performing Couple’s Choice and the Tango.
Special Guest Feature
As an exclusive bonus for arena audiences, 2023 finalist Layton Williams returns to the tour alongside professional partner Nikita Kuzmin. The iconic duo reunites for a high-energy guest slot, performing their celebrated Argentine Tango and Showdance.
Judges and Host Lineup
A live show would not be complete without the critique of the famous judging panel. The 2026 arena tour sees three beloved judges returning to the desk:
- Shirley Ballas – Returning to bring her sharp technical eyes as Head Judge.
- Anton Du Beke – Delivering his signature charm, wit, and encouraging scoring.
- Craig Revel Horwood – Acting as both tour director and the judge everyone loves to tease.
Guiding the audience through every quickstep, lift, and voting round is former professional dancer and It Takes Two presenter Janette Manrara, who brings her irresistible energy back as tour host.
How to Get Tickets and Practical Event Details
Tickets for all UK arena dates are available via official ticketing platforms like StrictlyComeDancingLive.com, Ticketmaster, and AXS.
Ticket Types & Pricing Expectations
- Standard Seating: Prices range depending on tier height and proximity to the main floor runway. Upper levels offer full stage overviews, while lower levels put you right next to the action.
- VIP & Hospitality Packages: Options include floor seats adjacent to the judging panel, fast-track entry, souvenir tour programs, and pre-show hospitality lounges.
Event Timing Breakdown
For most stops across the schedule, event timing follows a standard structure:
- Matinee Shows: Doors typically open around 1:00 PM with performances beginning at 2:30 PM.
- Evening Shows: Doors generally open around 6:00 PM with main show commencement at 7:30 PM.
- Show Duration: The live performance runs for approximately 2 hours, including a mid-show interval.
Summary Advice for Attendees
If you are planning to attend, book early for weekend matinee slots, as these family-friendly performances tend to sell out fastest. Arrive at the arena at least one hour before the show starts to clear security checks, pick up your merchandise, and get settled in your seat before the music starts!
