Rakkasah East Survival Guide

Rakkasah is the largest belly dance festival on the East Coast. Starting the evening of Friday, October 14^th and running through the evening on Sunday, October 16^th. 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!