The 4th Annual Raq'n Around the Christmas Tree Holiday Toy Drive and Taste of New Albany is this Thursday, December 6.

It's a belly-dancing-themed toy drive with food and drink, returning this year to New Albany's Holiday Inn after being held last year at the Grand.

Richard Atnip will be on hand with NABC beer samples, while I work the Ben Sollee performance at the Carnegie Center.

Since the latter is a low-key exclusive museum event that's been sold out for quite some time, I need say no more about it, except I'm looking very much forward to it, and if you're there, say hello.

You're invited to the 4th Annual Raq'n Around the Christmas Tree Holiday Toy Drive and Taste of New Albany extravaganza! Admission to this event is just one new toy or a $10 donation.

Taste of New Albany (6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.)
Tastings by La Bocca, Habana Blues, Louis/Le Francais, River City Winery, The Keg, Rookies Cookies, New Albanian Brewing Co., Wick's Pizza, La Bocca Italian Restaurant, Ice Cream & Pie Kitchen, Dragon King's Daughter, JB Pub & More...

Music by il Trobadore, Indianapolis Premier World Music Ensemble & dancing by lovely Isabelle Celeste Murray

7:30-9:00 p.m. Belly Dance Extravaganza
Performances by Al Hamsa, Gypsies of the Nile and Raqia's Stars led by "Best of Louisville Magazine Award Winner" Raqia.

Toys collected will benefit AIDS Interfaith Ministries of Kentuckiana (AIM). AIM serves children and families infected and affected by HIV/AIDS in Louisville and Southern Indiana.

This will be a unique evening of giving and celebration and the perfect opportunity to support and make this year magical for the children!!

For additional info or donations contact Raqia at 812 989-0821

Event Location: Holiday Inn Express 411 W Spring St, New Albany, Indiana 47150-3615