Join the Seaport Museum and The Culture Tree for one of New York City’s only public Navratri events—a vibrant and energetic Raas-Garba celebration aboard the historic 1885 tall ship Wavertree!

Anu Sehgal, founder and CEO of The Culture Tree, will kick off the afternoon festivities with an introduction to Navratri, the Hindu festival honoring the divine feminine and we will learn the meaningful connections between Wavertree and India. Author Saanam Lalwani will then read her picture book Life is a Dance: Enjoy It! as UNESCO-recognized folk dancer Urmi Kalsaria brings the story to life through dance.

Head dancer Meha Sadana and her troupe will guide you through basic Raas-Garba dance steps and teach you how to use your dandiya sticks before leading everyone in a lively dance-along to popular songs and the beats of traditional Gujarati music from DJ Magic Mike. The vibrant dance performance and workshop will bring this beautiful celebration to life with stunning costumes and amazing choreography. Whether this is your first time or you’re a seasoned dancer, this event is open to everyone and welcomes those who want to learn.

Along with the dancing and celebration, guests can enjoy a delicious spread of traditional Indian food, festive treats, and warm chai throughout the afternoon. It’s all part of the Navratri experience, with plenty to eat, sip, and enjoy between rounds of Garba and Raas. Delicious Indian food and drinks available for purchase. Dress in your best traditional attire if you’re feeling inspired, and sign up today to join this unforgettable celebration on the main deck of this iron-hulled cargo ship!

The Museum will have a limited number of dandiya sticks available on a first-come, first-served basis. To ensure you can fully join the fun, we encourage you to bring your own if you have them.