The Gnaoua and World Music Festival of Essaouira returns from June 25 to 27, 2026,
with a new edition centered on a powerful theme: the transmission of musical and cultural heritage.
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Through this program, the festival highlights Gnaoua culture, an ancestral Moroccan heritage
now internationally recognized, and its role in connecting generations, artists, and global traditions.
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As every year, Essaouira transforms into a major meeting point for artistic exchange, where maâlems
(master musicians) share the stage with international artists, creating unique musical fusions blending jazz, blues, Afro sounds, and contemporary influences.
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Beyond concerts, this edition places strong emphasis on transmission, encouraging dialogue between
established artists and emerging talent, while also hosting discussions on culture and intangible heritage.
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This positioning reinforces the festival’s identity as more than just a music event, it is a living space where
Gnaoua culture evolves while staying rooted in its traditions.
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One thing is clear:
Essaouira once again confirms its status as a global hub for Gnaoua music and intercultural creativity.
