Shimmy for Animals was born from a deep love for oriental dance and a heartfelt desire to help animals in need. During the difficult days of the COVID pandemic—when stages fell silent, studios closed, and there were few events —a small idea began to grow. What if the art of dance could bring people together again, even in a time of distance? And what if that same energy could also be used to support vulnerable animals who relied on the kindness of others?

With this vision, Shimmy for Animals took its first steps in 2022. It began as a way to revive the joy, connection, and creativity of bellydance in Belgium, offering dancers a sense of purpose and community when it was needed most. At the same time, it became a platform where passion could transform into compassion—where every shimmy and undulation contributed to raising awareness and funds for animal welfare.

What started as a simple idea grew into a heartfelt movement, uniting dancers, animal lovers, and supporters around a shared goal: to celebrate the beauty of dance while making a meaningful difference in the lives of animals. Today, Shimmy for Animals continues to honor those roots—keeping the dance community vibrant and giving a voice to those who cannot speak for themselves.

Throughout the years Shimmy for Animals raised funds for animals in need in Egypt, Ukraine and Gaza, Palestine.

This year we celebrate our 4th edition.

This edition's organisers