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The 25th Essaouira Gnaoua and World Music Festival brought life to the coastal city in June 2024. This festival celebrated Gnaoua music, a tradition rooted in the spiritual practices of the Gnaoua people, descendants of sub-Saharan African slaves. Gnaoua music, known for its hypnotic rhythms, was once used in healing rituals.
The festival kicked off with a lively parade led by Gnaoua Maâlems through Essaouira’s medina. This event wasn’t just a show; it was a living piece of cultural history. Over 400 artists performed across seven stages, merging traditional Gnaoua sounds with global music styles like flamenco and Brazilian batucada. The fusion concerts were a major highlight.
Educational initiatives also played a big role. The festival saw the creation of a university chair dedicated to Gnaoua culture. Workshops by Berklee College of Music deepened the understanding of Gnaoua’s cultural significance.
The festival’s impact on Essaouira was huge. The city’s population swelled from 80,000 to over 250,000, boosting local businesses. Marrakech First Out, a leading travel agency, helped bring international visitors, adding to the festival’s success.
In short, the 2024 Essaouira Gnaoua Festival was a vibrant celebration of music, culture, and tradition, bridging the gap between the old and the new.
For more details, check out the full articles here and here​(
HESPRESS English – Morocco News,
The Essaouira Gnaoua and World Music Festival is a vibrant celebration of Morocco’s rich musical heritage, blending traditional Gnaoua rhythms with global genres. Held annually in the coastal town of Essaouira, the festival draws artists and visitors from around the world. For a complete experience, consider booking through Marrakech First, which offers curated travel packages that let you explore both Essaouira and the festival. This ensures an enriching cultural journey filled with music, history, and adventure.
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