Israeli folk dance, or rikude Ężam, comprises intentionally choreographed dances performed to Hebrew songs, typically in circle, partner, or line formations. This form emerged from the needs of early pioneers (halutzim) during the First Aliyah in 1882, who, initially dancing Diaspora styles like the horah, sought to create a distinct Israeli culture through new dance forms. Pivotal figures such as Rivka Sturman, who choreographed over 90 dances between 1942 and 1983, and Gurit Kadman, who organized the first folk dance festival in 1944, were instrumental in its development. Today, Israeli folk dancing remains a popular recreational activity both within Israel, where it's celebrated at events like the Karmiel Dance Festival (first held in 1988), and among communities worldwide.