Discover the Essaouira Gnaoua Festival

In this month of June, we wanted to tell you everything about a cultural event not to be missed during your next stay in Morocco. Have you heard of the Essaouira Gnaoua and World Music Festival? This musical event is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, providing the perfect opportunity to discover this magnificent coastal town and its unique atmosphere.

Renowned for its ability to break down cultural barriers, the Gnaoua Festival offers an unforgettable musical experience, blending ancestral traditions with contemporary influences. For three days, from June 27 to 29, over 400 world-renowned artists will perform in the medina and on the beach of Essaouira. Enjoy unprecedented musical fusions with rhythms from Spain, Senegal, the United States, Côte d’Ivoire, Brazil, Algeria and Palestine.

The Gnaoua Festival has weathered many storms but has always maintained its commitment to promoting Gnaoua culture. The festival has played a crucial role in the rebirth and reinvention of this ancestral art, contributing to Essaouira’s rise as a world capital of music. Inscribed on UNESCO’s list of intangible heritage in 2019, the festival continues to strive for excellence and innovation.

This year, the festival is also launching a training program in partnership with the prestigious Berklee College of Music and preparing the creation of a university chair dedicated to Gnaoua culture at the Mohammed VI Polytechnic University in Benguerir. These initiatives aim to support and promote young talent on the Moroccan and international music scenes.

Whether you’re with family, friends, as a couple or solo, this experience is a unique opportunity to discover world music and feed your curiosity.
Make the most of your stay in Morocco to enjoy this exceptional cultural experience. We’ll be delighted to advise you and offer you a relaxing setting in Marrakech after the festivities. Come and discover the magic of the Gnaoua Festival and let yourself be enchanted by the beauty of Essaouira!

Essaouira, with its picturesque lanes, historic ramparts and pristine beaches, is a destination of choice for lovers of culture and nature. Stroll through the UNESCO World Heritage medina, explore its bustling markets and savour the delicious local cuisine. This city, steeped in history and charm, offers the ideal setting to recharge your batteries and get away from it all.

Book your stay at Oasis Lodges now, and don’t miss this unique opportunity before or after your Essaouira getaway!