Quick answer
The Gnaoua & World Music Festival runs in Essaouira from June 25 to 28, 2026 for its 27th edition, bringing together 400+ artists including dozens of gnaoua maâlems. The main stage on Moulay Hassan Square and the medina stages offer many free concerts, turning the whole town into a celebration of trance and world fusion.
- When
- 2026 — 25–28 June 20262027 — late June 2027 (dates to confirm)
- Where
- Moulay Hassan Square, Bab Marrakech, Borj Bab Marrakech and medina stages · Essaouira
- Type
- Music · All audiences, family-friendly and festive open-air vibe
- Pricing
- Most concerts free; paid pass for some premium stages/evenings
- Getting there
- Essaouira-Mogador airport; bus/transfer from Marrakech (≈3 h); best base: Marrakech or Essaouira
- Official site
- www.festival-gnaoua.net
* Official dates to confirm.
About the event
Born in 1998, the Gnaoua Festival has become the flagship gathering for gnaoua music — an Afro-Moroccan spiritual heritage — and its fusions with jazz, blues, reggae and electronic music. The famous "fusions" bring a gnaoua maâlem and international guests together on stage for one-off creations.
Most concerts are free and held outdoors, in a UNESCO-listed medina bathed by the Atlantic. It is one of Morocco’s most accessible and festive events, but also one of the busiest: accommodation in Essaouira goes very fast for these dates.
Where to stay during the event
Check availability· Booking.com
Good to know
- Book accommodation very early: Essaouira sells out months ahead for the Gnaoua festival.
- Stay in or right next to the medina to walk home after the evening concerts.
- Arrive 1–2 days early to enjoy the atmosphere before the weekend crowd peak.
- Don’t miss the "fusions": they are the most unique moments of the festival.
