Capital
City
Hafla
Alma
What is a Hafla?
It is a gathering. A party. A space where the music swells, the rhythm takes over, and the floor opens. Here, we celebrate the art of Arabic and Egyptian dance—not as a stage show behind a velvet rope, but as a living, breathing community experience. Each evening brings a lineup of ten to twelve dancers spanning a range of styles and levels, anchored by a professional headliner who closes the show. Expect the shimmer of hip scarves, the scent of cardamom and rose water, the quiet drama of a dancer's entrance, and the collective joy of shared movement.
An evening, unfolded
- 6:00PM
Doors open & buffet
Arrive to lantern light, find your seat, and settle in. This month we're serving a fabulous buffet showcasing the best of Marrakesh restaurant's Moroccan food by their celebrated chef. The bar is yours for the evening — order whatever cocktails strike you.
- 6:30PM
The show begins
The first half of the lineup — five or six dancers from the local community spanning classical raqs sharqi, folkloric, and contemporary styles. Entrances, slow builds, and the room finding its way into the music.
- 7:15PM
Intermission
A short pause to refill drinks, order another round from the kitchen, and stretch your legs before the second half.
- 7:30PM
The show continues
More of the lineup, then the evening's featured headliner takes the floor for the finale — two pieces that bring the room to its feet and pull everyone into the open dancing that follows.
- 8:00PM
The floor opens
Social dancing for everyone. Beginners welcome — bring a hip scarf to join the fun! Stay for as long as the music keeps moving you.
See it in motion
A glimpse of the music, the movement, and the magic from past gatherings — straight from the floor.
Set the mood
A taste of the rhythms that fill the room — press play and let the evening begin before you arrive.
Scenes from the room
Marrakesh DC
1331 H Street NW, Washington, DC
Metered spots line H, G, 13th, and 14th Streets NW. Most downtown meters are free on Sundays — please read the posted signs for any block-specific restrictions.
Several commercial garages sit within a two to three block walk, including the Franklin Square area one block north and the Metropolitan Square garages around 13th & G. Most offer flat evening rates after 5 PM.
Metro Center (Red, Orange, Blue, Silver) and McPherson Square (Orange, Blue, Silver) are each about a five minute walk. Capital Bikeshare stations are scattered across the surrounding blocks.
Become part of the Hafla
Dance in the lineup, join the drum circle, or vend at the souk — there are many ways to take part.
Join the Circle
Sign up to be notified about the next hafla. Reservations are made directly with Marrakesh DC at (202) 999-8980.