Shakti Fest returns for its fifth year May 15 – 17 at the Joshua Tree Retreat Center, in Joshua Tree, CA. Organized by Bhakti Fest Events who lead the way in conscious festival events, Shakti Fest is unique as a springtime celebration of the divine feminine spirit, described in Hindu philosophy as the ‘dynamic force which moves the universe’. The festival features world famous yoga teachers, kirtan music stars, wisdom workshops, and a healing sanctuary.
“When we started Shakti Fest as our season kick off five years ago, we had no idea it would become such a beloved event,” noted Sridhar Silberfein, founder of Bhakti Fest. “It’s wonderful that we are able to honor the spirit of the universal mother right around Mother’s Day.”
The Shakti Fest 2015 music lineup includes inspiring kirtan (a.k.a. chanting) artists Jai Uttal, Donna De Lory, Masood Ali Khan, Saul David Raye, Govind Das & Radha, DJ Drez & Marti Nikko, Karnmarita, Prema Hara, Larisa Stow, Jaya Lakshmi & Ananda and Natesh. The centuries-old practice of devotional chanting is considered to connect humans with themselves, the universe, and spirit. The performance schedule is at http://shaktifest.bhaktifest.com/kirtan/.
World-class yoga teachers are the heart of Shakti Fest, with Shiva Rea, Mark Whitwell, Yogi Cameron, Kia Miller, Sara Ivanhoe, Kristin Olson, Nandhi, Himalaya Behl, Bhava Ram & Laura Plum and others leading shakti-energy invoking sessions in a variety of yoga styles. The full yoga class schedule can be viewed at http://shaktifest.bhaktifest.com/yoga/.
Shakti Fest 2015 Workshops will cover topics including ayurveda, spiritual nutrition, tantric energy, astrology, vedic science, healing trauma, bhakti art and kirtan for kids, with internationally known speakers including Michael Brian Baker, Gabriel Cousens, Manoj Chalam, Dr. Amrit Raj and Mirabhai Devi. A pre-festival intensive will also be offered with Saul David Raye and Jeffrey Armstrong.For further workshop and intensive detail see http://shaktifest.bhaktifest.com/workshops/.
The historic Joshua Tree Desert Retreat Center is the oldest and largest retreat center in the Western U.S., located on a sacred site replete with a walking labyrinth. The sublime high desert setting allows for peaceful inner reflection and uplifting spiritual renewal. Accommodation options include camping and RV parking, all on site. There are also ten local hotels within a few miles of the retreat center. The Shakti Fest Eco Village offers natural food vendors and artists. The organizers pride themselves on running a green event, offering free water and mindful recycling practices. For travel information please see http://shaktifest.bhaktifest.com/travel-info/.
Early bird festival passes and intensive tickets are now available for Shakti Fest 2015, with discounts offered to local residents, veterans, military, seniors and students. Tickets are available at http://tickets.brightstarevents.com/event/3871399.