28th Gnaoua and World Music Festival, Essaouira

The Gnaoua and World Music Festival turns the Atlantic town of Essaouira into a huge open-air concert every June. The 28th edition runs from 24 to 26 June 2027, bringing Gnaoua masters (maâlems) together with jazz, soul, African and world musicians. It suits music lovers, young travellers, families and groups looking for a summer festival on the Moroccan coast.

About the Gnaoua Festival

Gnaoua music has deep spiritual and historical roots in Morocco and is recognised by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage. The festival celebrates this tradition and is known for its fusions, where maâlems share the stage with international artists. Concerts run on large open-air stages in the town's squares and on the beach, alongside smaller, more intimate venues.

Daytime programmes have included talks and a forum on culture and society. The organisers report large audiences each year, so Essaouira becomes very lively during the festival. The official website publishes the programme, the line-up and practical information in French and English.

the Gnaoua Festival 2027 dates and venue

The official website announces the 28th edition from 24 to 26 June 2027 in Essaouira. Concerts usually run from late afternoon to late at night across the three days.

Stages are set up in and around Essaouira's medina, including the main square near the port and the beachfront. The stage list and line-up appear on the official Gnaoua Festival website closer to the dates.

How to get to Essaouira for the Gnaoua Festival

Essaouira Mogador Airport (ESU) is small, with limited routes. Most visitors fly into Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK) and continue by road to Essaouira, a scenic drive west towards the Atlantic. Casablanca Mohammed V (CMN) and Agadir Al Massira (AGA) are other options with longer road transfers.

Buses and shared or private transfers link Marrakech and Essaouira. Inside Essaouira, the medina is compact and walkable, and cars are not allowed in most of it, so plan a drop-off point near the gates.

Where to stay

Staying inside the medina puts you a few minutes' walk from the main stages, usually in riads and small guesthouses. The beachfront and the newer districts just outside the walls have larger hotels, while Diabat and Sidi Kaouki offer quieter options a short drive away.

Accommodation in Essaouira is limited and fills months ahead of the festival. Book as early as possible, and consider Marrakech for groups that cannot find enough rooms.

Planning a group trip to the Gnaoua Festival

A group tour to the Gnaoua Festival works well as a four- or five-day trip: arrival in Marrakech, transfer to Essaouira, three evenings of concerts and free time in the medina, the port and on the beach.

For groups, agree a fixed meeting point near the main square, as crowds are large in the evenings. Arrange return transfers in advance, because demand for cars is high on the final night.

• Book rooms very early: Essaouira's accommodation is limited and the festival draws large crowds.
• Pack layers: Essaouira is often windy and evenings by the Atlantic can be cool even in June.
• Travel documents: check the official entry requirements for Morocco before travel.

Frequently asked questions

When is the Gnaoua Festival 2027?

The 28th edition runs from 24 to 26 June 2027 in Essaouira, according to the official festival website.

Where are the concerts held?

On open-air stages in Essaouira's squares and beachfront, plus smaller venues in the medina. The organisers publish the stage list before the festival.

Do I need tickets for the Gnaoua Festival?

Check the official website for current ticketing. Some concerts and venues may have different access arrangements.

How do I get to Essaouira?

Most visitors fly to Marrakech (RAK) and transfer by road. Essaouira Mogador Airport (ESU) has a few routes.

Is the festival suitable for families?

Yes, many families attend, but evening crowds are large. Choose accommodation close to the stages and agree meeting points.

Travel agencies can book flights for travellers going to the Gnaoua Festival in the QuickOTA B2B Panel and set their own markup.