The annual Sydney Middle Eastern Dance Festival is Australia's longest-established and most popular belly dance event. It is the highlight of the year for belly dancers, students and fans throughout the country.

The Festival is produced by Leonie Sükan, Principal and Artistic Director of the Newtown Middle Eastern Dance Centre. The 2008 Festival will be the 19th.

From small beginnings the Festival has grown to attract participants from all over Australia and from overseas. Special guests in recent years include Tanyeli from Turkey (above left), Russya from Germany and Narmaya from Canada (far left).

The Festival consists of middle eastern dance and drumming workshops taught by Australia's best teachers and international guests, and many performances, including a gala concert, a dinner-dance party, and the all-day Festival Follies. The Festival takes place each year in April / May.