Govind Das & Radha will perform at the festival this year.

Shakti Fest returns for its sixth year May 13-15 at the Joshua Tree Desert Retreat Center. Organized by the producers of Bhakti Fest, this springtime festival celebrates the divine feminine spirit, described in Hindu philosophy as the ‘dynamic force which moves the universe.’

The festival features celebrated yoga teachers, musical performances, wisdom workshops, and a healing sanctuary. The 2016 musical lineup includes inspiring Kirtan (a.k.a. chanting) artists Jai Uttal, Donna De Lory, Larissa Stowe, Saul David Raye, Govind Das & Radha, Girish, Prema Hara, Jaya Lakshmi & Ananda, Spring Groove, Prajna Vieira & the Mukti Kirtan Ensemble, and Amritakripa. The centuries-old practice of devotional chanting is considered to connect humans with themselves, the universe, and spirit.

“When we started Shakti Fest as our spring celebration six years ago, we had no idea it would become such a beloved event,” said event founder and producer Sridhar Silberfein. “It’s wonderful that we are able to honor the spirit of the universal mother right around Mother’s Day.”

Festival goers enjoy an early morning yoga class.

World-class yoga teachers are the heart of Shakti Fest, and spring in Joshua Tree is a beautiful time to practice indoors and out. Teachers this year include Shiva Rea, Mark Whitwell, Saul David Raye, Sara Ivanhoe, Mas Vidal, Laura Plum, Kia Miller, Tymi Howard, Leeza Villagomez, and desert favorite Kristin Olson leading energy invoking sessions in a variety of yoga styles.

Workshops this year will cover topics including Ayurveda, spiritual nutrition, tantric energy, astrology, Vedic science, healing trauma, bhakti art, Hindu mythology, and hoop dance. Speakers include Michael Brian Baker, Jeffrey Armstrong, Syamarani, Lorin Roche, Ph.D. and Mirabhai Devi.

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. On-site festival accommodations include retreat center spaces, yurts, camping, and RV parking. The Shakti Fest Eco Village also offers natural food vendors, yoga clothing and gear, jewelry, art and collectibles.

Shakti Fest takes place May 13-15 at Joshua Tree Desert Retreat Center. For tickets and additional information visit shaktifest.bhaktifest.com