Morris dancing is a form of English folk dance. It is based on rhythmic stepping and the execution of choreographed figures by a group of dancers in costume, usually wearing bell pads on their shins and/or shoes. A band or single musician, also costumed, will accompany them. Sticks, swords, handkerchiefs, and a variety of other implements may be wielded by the dancers.
Morris dancers with handkerchiefs in York
One of Erasmus Grasser's small Moriskentänzer statues from 1480, showing what would have been termed a "moorish" dancer, where the other nine surviving carvings are fairer-skinned. All wear bells on their legs.
Illustration of William Kempe Morris dancing from London to Norwich in 1600
Morris dancers and a hobby horse: detail of Thames at Richmond, with the Old Royal Palace, c. 1620
A folk dance is a dance that reflects the life of the people of a certain country or region. Not all ethnic dances are folk dances. For example, ritual dances or dances of ritual origin are not considered to be folk dances. Ritual dances are usually called "religious dances" because of their purpose.
Traditional Valencian dances
Rapper Sword Dancers - Sheffield Steel
Folk Dancing at Jack in the Green May Day festival in Hastings, UK.
Turkey folk dance