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The Yallah Arts & Dance Festival August, 9 & 10th 2025

Ashkenaz, Berkeley

Now in its second year, this festival proudly celebrates the SWANA (South West Asia and North Africa) region, and the allies who stand in solidarity with its practices and traditions to further its reach. Rooted in a deep respect for heritage and an eye toward the future, the festival brings together artists, community members, and supporters of all backgrounds to honor and contribute to the richness of SWANA culture in contemporary creative expression. We have always aimed to understand traditional techniques through contemporary methodology. This festival includes food, music, dance, and artisanal craft, and is meant to be an inclusive space where SWANA culture is not only centered and celebrated, but also uplifted and supported by those committed to learning, connection, and community.

Teachers for YALLAH 2025

amel

Amel Tafsout

fadi

Fadi Islambouli

zoe

Zoe Jakes

amy

Amy Sigil

Izabela Salimpour

Access For Everybody 🥳

We’re thrilled to share the 2025 YALLAH Arts Festival ACCESSIBILITY GUIDE — because every body deserves access to community, art, and culture.

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Wheelchair access

The venue is wheelchair accessible with ramps and clear pathways for easy navigation.

ASL Interpretation

ASL interpretation provided at all workshops. Must notify us a request for interpreter by July 31st by emailing dance@suhaila.com.

All-gender restrooms

All restrooms are all-gender to welcome guests of all gender identities.

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No strobe lights

This performance does not have any flashing or strobe lights.

Public transit friendly

Ashkenaz is accessible by BART and MUNI lines

KN95 masks provided

A masked event! with KN95 masks provided.

Suhaila's Merch

Just Launched!

Introducing a new line of mindfully designed apparel that feels like coming home. Created by Suhaila, this merchandise celebrates our shared history and the joyful moments that bring our community together. Featuring cozy, comfortable, and unisex designs, each piece is an invitation to express your passion and wear your story with pride.

Festival Schedule

Saturday

Festival time 12:00pm-10pm⏰

Sunday

Festival time 12:00pm-4pm⏰

Experience the Legacy: The FEZ Documentary Screening at Our Festival

The Fez- The first authentic Arabic Supperclub in Hollywood, California that became an icon of its time, famous around the world for it’s food, it’s atmosphere, and of course, for it’s music and dance. Opened in 1959 by Lou Shelaby, the Fez went on to feature many Arabic musicians and Belly Dancers who have gone on to inspire generations of dancers around the world.

Support Yallah Arts Festival

Our anticipated funding sources—including key grants—have been unexpectedly canceled, but we’re committed to bringing you the full festival experience, including Bal Anat and top-tier workshops.

To make it happen, we need your support! Yallah Arts Festival celebrates underrepresented voices and cultural richness. Help us bring this vision to life with a tax-deductible donation courtesy of SADC.

 

Every contribution counts—whether it’s a donation or simply spreading the word!

Pricing

$250

VIP

All access YALLAH

$50

Saturday

All day/ night entrance

$20

Sunday

Day entrance

Bal Anat ticket sold separately

$60

/ Per Workshop

Includes a day pass to the festival.

$35

General Admission

Separate Location

Service Fee not included

Event Programing by Suhaila Salimpour

August, 9 & 10th 2025

The meaning of "Yallah" 👀

In Arabic, “Yallah” translates to “let’s go”. It’s a lively word used to prompt action and encourage movement, embodying the energetic spirit we want to share at our festival!

The meaning of "SWANA" 🤔

SWANA represents the various communities located in Southwest Asia and North Africa.