Salaam Aleikum!

Gulf Wars XXI presents a magical opportunity for the SCA re-enactor to explore the widest possible range of historical activities.  This twenty plus year tradition of rich diversity of topics is well represented within the microcosm of al Mahala, offering classes in cuisine, music, dance, garb, arts and sciences of not only The Levant, the Arabian Peninsula and Persia, but also India, Andalusia; Ottoman and Silk Road regions as well.

Classes at al Mahala

Please join us for daily classes - Beginner Dance at 10:00 am, preceded by Warm-ups at 9:00, and followed by Cuisine at 11:00.  Join us for the one-of-a-kind sessions to include Arabic Language, constructing your own personalized garb patterns, and Period Pavement Techniques.

Those interested in offering a class are encouraged to use the class entry form or feel free to contact Al-Mahala with questions or ideas here.

Events at al Mahala

Each night, join us in our dance tent for music and dance for our samras*(haflas). If you want to perform in either the Known World Expo or the Salon, please let us know!

• Monday - Open Night Samra* 9 pm
• Tuesday - Block Party/Drum Circle 9 pm
• Wednesday - Known World Dance Expo and Samra* to follow starting at 8 pm
• Thursday - Salon 2:00 - 4:00 pm
• Friday - Known World Party - Participate as performers for the Arabian Nights theme

At the Wednesday Night Known World Dance Expo, we'll showcase the best of the Known World's dancers and musicians of the Near East. Make sure to stay after the Expo for a more boisterous and high-energy atmosphere at our Samra!

Join us for our Thursday Afternoon Social for homage to the medieval salons of Baghdad and Alhambra.  This civilized gathering focuses on the more historically accurate dance and music of the regions, and offers the opportunity to enjoy a leisurely chess game, partake of some light refreshment, and the soak in the ambience of a time gone by.

With delight at the prospect of your visit, we remain In Service,

Contact Al Mahala

**What's a Samra?

The samra/ Zambra is a celebration attributed to the al-Andalus era of Southern Spain. 'Samra' in Arabic means a spontaneous celebration of dance and music, that takes place all night long. Originally the Arabic term 'Samra' was used to describe the noises made by the sounds of lively crowds and certain musical instruments, such as in a party or celebration. Also referred to as 'Zambra' in the Spanish language, documents dated to the 1600's describe the Zambra as festivities with the music of wind instruments such as the sounds of pipes and flutes.