Rakkasah is the largest belly dance festival on the East Coast. Starting the evening of Friday, October 14th and running through the evening on Sunday, October 16th. You will find a non-stop belly dance showcase from student performers through master teachers performing at the festival. There are also dozens of vendors selling silk, sparkles, and jewels.
It is a lot of fun, but can be completely overwhelming, so here are some tips to help you make the most of your visit. It is certainly possible to make a day trip to Rakkasah, but staying over at one of the local hotels makes it a nice getaway. The best choice is the Crowne Plaza since it is walking distance to the festival and where the after parties are held.
The Basics:
The festival will be held at the Ukrainian Cultural Center
135 Davidson Ave, Somerset, New Jersey 08873
Friday, October 14, 7pm-11pm - $15
Saturday, October 15, 11am – 11pm - $18
Sunday, October 16, 11am – 8pm $18
Seniors and children 10 & under are half price
There aren’t too many restaurants around, but there is a restaurant in the Crowne Plaza hotel across the street, and a Ruby Tuesdays on the same street, but a short drive away.
What to wear:
You see it all at Rakkasah. You can come in regular street clothes, but lots of women dress up with a skirt, hip scarf, some nice jewelry. And there are always performers milling around in full costume.
What to bring:
Samples of the costumes you own:
If you are trying to match a skirt, veil, or other parts to a costume you already have, be sure to bring a sample of the costume you are looking to match. This will be incredibly valuable to making sure you get the right color and style.
Snacks & water bottle
There is food at the event, but not a ton of options. It is a good idea to bring a few snacks and water with you.
Don’t Miss These:
-- Shaula at Silkdancer – you must stop and see her beautiful veils & fan veils
-- Chocolate Cake – the concessions aren’t great…except for the chocolate cake, which is pretty amazing!
-- The After Parties – held after the festival closes on Friday and Saturday nights at the Crowne Plaza hotel. It’s best to stay over for these
Performances Not to Miss:
Here is a short list of performers to catch while you are at Rakkasah. By no means comprehensive, I’m sure I have left out some great dancers, but here are a few you should be sure to catch and what to look for:
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 14
8:43 AVA FLEMING, PHOENIX, AZ
- I’ve never seen her live. Can’t wait!
10:32 AMALIA, PHILADELPHIA, PA
- Going back to Greek dance roots tonight. Would be great to see you there : )
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 15
3:43 FAHTIEM, ROWLAND HEIGHTS, CA
- Great stage presence, insane belly rolls, and so much more!
3:54 ANEENA, NOVATO, CA
– You don’t want to miss her double veil!
5:16 BELLYQUEEN, ELISHEVA, SHANDRALIS & IRENA AKULENKO --
RISING SIRENS, FIRE BLOSSOMS & PRINCESSES, KAESHI CHAI, NEW YORK, NY
-I love any group choreography from Kaeshi Chai. Wait – love everything by Kaeshi Chai!
5:47 ANASMA, NEW YORK
-If you missed in in Philly in January, don’t miss her here – Wow!
8:00 RAKKASAH SPECIAL -- EDDIE ‘THE SHEIK’ KOCHAK AND SCOTT WILSON – An icon of the belly dance music scene in America-- Be there if you can!
8:25 SHUSHANNA, PHILADELPHIA
- She is a beautiful dancer and host of the Philly Hafla.
8:53 RANYA RENEE, NEW YORK, NY
– Wonderful performer & dancer
9:00 NAIMAH & TROUPE AMANDARI, BALTIMORE, MD
- Fabulous tribal dancer
9:15 SHAULA, WALDWICK, NJ
– of Silkdancer, does wonders with veil and sword!
