10 of the Best Music Festivals in Morocco

Planning a cultural trip to Morocco? Discover 10 of the best music festivals in Morocco to incorporate into your itinerary.

From the Chaabi rhythms of the north to the soulful Gnawa melodies of the south, Morocco’s musical heritage is as rich and multifaceted as the land itself. Its musical traditions combine Amazigh, Arabic, Andalusian and sub-Saharan influences, and there are plenty of opportunities for travellers to discover the country’s cultural landscape during visits. 

Throughout the year, Morocco hosts numerous festivals dedicated to music. Each offers a window into the kingdom’s musical past. From the Festival of World Sacred Music in Fes to the trance-inducing sounds of Essaouira’s Gnaoua World Music Festival, you’ll be treated to energised performances by some of the region’s most talented creatives.

Morocco is also no stranger to contemporary music, with several annual events that highlight international pop, jazz and electronic artists. 

In this article, discover 10 of the best music festivals in Morocco and how to incorporate them into your North African itinerary. 

Festival of World Sacred Music

Established in 1994, this 10-day event takes place in late May or early June. Over the years, it has grown into an international stage for honouring sacred music traditions. Drawing artists from around the globe to the historic city of Fes, the festival presents a diverse lineup. It includes everything from Sufi chants to Quranic recitations and uplifting gospel harmonies.

In addition to the musical performances, the festival encourages meaningful conversations through engaging debates and panel discussions. Ultimately, it creates a platform for deep connections between music, spirituality and humanity.

In 2025, the Festival of World Sacred Music will take place from May 16 to 24.

Want to attend the Festival of World Sacred Music in Fes? Discover how to get there and the best places to stay in this Essential Travel Guide to Fes.

Gnaoua World Music Festival

Every year in June, the coastal town of Essaouira ignites as the Gnaoua World Music Festival takes centre stage. This incredible event, spanning three days, honours the Gnaoua people, a unique ethnic group native to the Maghreb region. Their rich musical heritage comprises captivating call-and-response chants, rhythmic percussion and the enchanting melodies of the guembri lute.

Aside from incredible Gnaoua performances, the festival showcases fusion concerts with world-class artists from various contemporary genres.

In 2025, the Gnaoua World Music Festival will take place from June 19 to 21.

Want to attend the Gnaoua World Music Festival in Essaouira? Discover how to get there and the best places to stay in this Essential Travel Guide to Essaouira.

Mawazine Festival

Every year in June, this global music festival takes place in Rabat and has grown into one of the biggest in North Africa. Its name, “Rhythms of the World,” perfectly captures its goal. Not only does it showcase Morocco’s diverse cultural influences and welcoming nature but also artists from all over the world.

The festival spans across various venues in the capital. In previous years, it has featured renowned pop and R&B stars such as Stevie Wonder, Usher and Maroon 5. What sets Mawazine apart is its inclusivity. Many of the performances can be enjoyed for free!

In 2025, the Mawazine Festival will take place from June 20 to 28.

Want to attend the Mawazine Festival in Rabat? Discover how to get there and the best places to stay in this Essential Travel Guide to Rabat.

Timitar Music Festival 

Established in 2004, this four-day event has expanded to become one of Morocco’s best music festivals. Held each July in the seaside town of Agadir, it attracts throngs of attendees from various corners of the globe. Broadly speaking, it serves as a tribute to Amazigh heritage through the universal medium of music.

With multiple stages, the event presents a diversity of musical performances. These range from traditional Amazigh folk groups to avant-garde electronic musicians. Additionally, the Timitar Festival boasts a variety of cultural activities, such as artisan markets and interactive workshops.

Want to attend the Timitar Music Festival in Agadir? Discover how to get there and the best places to stay in this Essential Travel Guide to Agadir.

Tanjazz Festival

Held in the coastal city of Tangier each September, this three-day jazz festival unites a diverse mix of local and international musicians while attracting crowds from all corners of the globe. Alongside Moroccan artists influenced by the country’s musical evolution, the event highlights innovative international performers and iconic figures in Afro-jazz.

Shows take place in various public spaces and intimate venues throughout Tangier, a city known for its rich cultural heritage.

Want to attend the Tanjazz Festival in Tangier? Discover how to get there and the best places to stay in this Essential Travel Guide to Tangier.

L’Boulevard Festival 

Each September, Casablanca hosts a week-long celebration that brings together electronic, rock and underground acts from all over the country. This festival is a golden opportunity for aspiring Moroccan musicians to gain exposure and recognition on a national level.

One of the festival’s highlights is the Tremplin (trampoline) segment. Here, emerging artists can showcase their talent in front of large audiences and industry experts. In addition to the incredible performances, the festival also features Sbagha Bagha, an initiative that transforms Casablanca with graffiti murals.

Want to attend the L’Boulevard Festival in Casablanca? Discover how to get there and the best places to stay in this Essential Travel Guide to Casablanca.

MOGA Electronic Music Festival

Every year in October, the coastal city of Essaouira hosts this huge event, which celebrates electronic music and digital arts. This festival brings together talented artists from Morocco and the wider Maghreb region for an event that is all about letting off steam and creative collaboration.

Aside from electrifying live performances and captivating audiovisual installations, there are immersive multimedia experiences that blend modern technology with the region’s cultural traditions.

In 2025, the MOGA festival will take place from 1 to 5 October.

Want to attend the MOGA Electronic Music Festival in Essaouira? Discover how to get there and the best places to stay in this Essential Travel Guide to Essaouira.

Taragalte Festival

The Taragalte Festival is held each October in the desert oasis of M’Hamid El Ghizlane, right on the outskirts of the Erg Chigaga dunes. This festival is a wonderful tribute to the nomadic culture, heritage and musical traditions of the Amazigh and Tuareg people.

Across three days, you can experience performances showcasing the rhythms and melodies of these communities, as well as poetry readings and art exhibits. The Taragalte Festival also features workshops that aim to spread messages of peace and environmental consciousness.

Want to attend the Taragalte Festival in M’Hamid El Ghizlane? Check out this article about planning a Sahara Desert experience in Morocco or my Essential Travel Guide to M’Hamid El Ghizlane.

Oudayas Jazz Festival

The Oudayas Jazz Festival is an eagerly awaited event that occurs every October in the Moroccan capital, Rabat. It is hosted within the historic Kasbah of the Oudaias, a fortress-like neighbourhood renowned for its Moorish design and sweeping ocean views.

Across several days, the whitewashed streets and squares come to life with the sounds of jazz, as musicians from around the world come together to showcase their skills.

Want to attend the Oudayas Jazz Festival in Rabat? Discover how to get there and the best places to stay in this Essential Travel Guide to Rabat.

Atlantic Andalusia Festival

Essaouira is the backdrop for this Moroccan music festival that unites Jewish and Muslim artists from across the country. Attendees can enjoy fascinating exhibitions showcasing the country’s artistic heritage, from paintings and crafts to multimedia installations.

The festival also includes concerts highlighting the fusion of Moroccan, Andalusian and other international musical styles. These include flamenco performances drawing on Spanish cultural influences.

Want to attend the Atlantic Andalusia Festival in Essaouira? Discover how to get there and the best places to stay in this Essential Travel Guide to Essaouira.

About Me

I’m Malika, a global traveller who first visited Morocco in 2014 before marrying a local and settling down in a little village on the Atlantic coast. Over the years, I’ve developed an intense love for Morocco, its incredible landscapes, storied cities and the exceptionally generous hospitality of its people.

Malika in Morocco is a place to share my years of experience exploring the country, from north to south and from the Atlantic Ocean to the Sahara Desert. As a resource for travellers visiting Morocco, I want to encourage others to experience this captivating destination the way they desire, whether that’s independently or under the expert guidance of local tour operators.

I believe strongly in supporting responsible and sustainable tourism initiatives while inspiring travel experiences that are life-impacting and mutually beneficial for both travellers and locals.