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Join us September 6 & 7 at the San Jose Scottish Rite Center in lovely San José, CA for an unforgettable weekend of dance, music, and community at the Gilded Raqs Belly Dance Festival! We’re thrilled to bring you an incredible event featuring two dazzling stages, world-class workshops, and a vibrant marketplace filled with treasures for every dancer. A Stunning Venue for a Spectacular FestivalOur spacious venue boasts a grand stage with ample seating, creating the perfect atmosphere to showcase mesmerizing performances. The Badia auditorium will be filled with talented dancers and an array of vendors. Plus, the Samia stage and marketplace will provide even more space for shopping and dancing, making this a festival experience like no other! |
At Gilded Raqs, we are proud to name our two stages Badia and Samia, honoring two legendary icons of belly dance history: Badia Masabni and Samia Gamal. Badia Masabni was a visionary impresario who revolutionized Middle Eastern dance by bringing it to the theatrical stage and blending traditional forms with Western influences—laying the foundation for modern Oriental dance. Samia Gamal, her star protégé, became an international sensation known for her grace, charisma, and innovative style. Together, they helped shape the golden era of Egyptian dance, inspiring generations of dancers around the world. These stages celebrate their legacy and the artistry they brought to the world of belly dance. |
World-Class Golden Workshops & Mini Glimmer Workshops
We are beyond excited to host workshops by some of the most renowned artists in the belly dance world:
✨ Pixie Fordtears – Slinky and stylish Fusion Flair.
✨ Kae Montgomery – Legendary FCBDstyle performer and teacher.
✨ Shabnam – A master of the graceful and dynamic Orientale style.
See more details and registration for Golden Workshops
In addition, Mini Glimmer Workshops led by Guild members will take place throughout both days, offering exciting bite-sized learning opportunities for dancers of all levels.
See more details and registration for Glimmer WorkshopsTwo Stages, Tons of Vendors, and a Wonderful Community!
With two stages showcasing breathtaking performances, a bustling vendor marketplace, and workshops designed to inspire, Gilded Raqs is an event you won’t want to miss!
Mark your calendars, stay tuned for more details, and get ready for a gilded weekend of dance, beauty, and community!
Festival Dates:
Saturday, September 6, 2025 – Workshops: 9:00 AM-12:00 PM; Festival Dancing: 12:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Sunday, September 7, 2025 – Workshops: 9:00 AM-12:00 PM; Festival Dancing: 12:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Gilded Raqs Festival Pricing
Get ready for an unforgettable weekend of dance, workshops, and shopping! Choose the pass that works best for you!
Registration opens on June 1 for Guild Members and June 8 for Non-Members.
Become a Member Now for Discounts!
✨ General Festival Admission
Includes access to performances and vendors.
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One-Day Pass
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Guild Members: $20
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Non-Members: $25
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Two-Day Pass
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Guild Members: $35
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Non-Members: $45
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✨ Performer Admission
Apply to display your skills and talents, and get a discounted admission for that day. Perform to live music from Pangia or The Flairs, or to your own pre-recorded tracks played through a professional sound system.
✨ Workshops
Take classes with top instructors! (Workshops do not include festival admission.)
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Full Workshops (by featured instructors)
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Guild Members: $55 per workshop
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Non-Members: $70 per workshop
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Mini-Workshops (taught by Guild members), must also purchase a festival admission.
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Guild Members: $15 per mini-workshop
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Non-Members: $20 per mini-workshop
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NON-MEMBERS – PURCHASE WORKSHOPS HERE!
✨ Festival + Workshop Passes (Best Value!)
Includes festival admission & full workshops (mini-workshops not included, unless indicated).
- The Tahia Pass
3 Featured Workshops + 2-Day Admission — $180 (Member) / $230 (Non-Member)
Named for the legendary Tahia Carioca, known for her charisma, strength, and film-star presence. This is the full-access pass for dancers ready to shine all weekend long.
- The Naima Pass
2 Featured Workshops + 1-Day Admission — $120 (Member) / $150 (Non-Member)
Inspired by Naima Akef, beloved for her vibrant energy and playful style. A perfect one-day immersion into classic elegance and joyful movement.
- The Soheir Pass
2 Featured Workshops + 2 Mini-Workshops + 2-Day Admission — $160 (Member) / $210 (Non-Member)
Honoring Soheir Zaki, whose softness and musicality made her a darling of the golden era. This pass is the perfect blend of depth and diversity—two full days, featured and mini workshops.
PURCHASE YOUR FESTIVAL PASS HERE!
️How to Purchase Tickets
Tickets will be available online in advance by clicking the above links and at the door (if not sold out).