Rabat – From June through August, Morocco will host a packed calendar of cultural festivals celebrating music, cinema, theatre, literature and traditional arts.
Spanning cities from Rabat and Casablanca to Essaouira and Marrakech, the events highlight the Kingdom’s growing position as a regional cultural hub while showcasing both Moroccan heritage and international artistic exchange.
Mawazine – Rhythms of the World
The season opens with the 21st edition of the festival Mawazine – Rhythms of the World, taking place in Rabat and Salé from June 19-27.
Organized by Maroc Cultures, Mawazine has become one of Africa’s largest music festivals, attracting millions of spectators since its launch in 2001.
Known for offering free access to the majority of its concerts, the festival will welcome a mix of Moroccan, Arab and international performers this year, including Tyla, Rema, Dizzy Dros, Asmae Lamnawar and Majid Al Mohandis.
Gnaoua and World Music Festival
Just days later, the spotlight shifts to the Atlantic coast for the Gnaoua and World Music Festival in Essaouira, running from June 25-27.
Since its founding in 1998, the festival has played a key role in elevating Gnaoua music from a marginalized tradition to an internationally recognized art form.
Its hallmark fusion performances bring together Gnaoua masters and musicians from genres ranging from jazz and blues to reggae, rock and world music, creating one of Morocco’s most distinctive cultural experiences.
Jazzablanca
July begins with the return of Jazzablanca, taking place in Casablanca from July 2-11.
Established in 2006, the festival has evolved beyond jazz to embrace a broad spectrum of contemporary music.
The 2026 lineup features international stars including Jessie J, Robbie Williams, Mika and Faouzia, alongside local talent, reinforcing Casablanca’s role as a major destination on the global festival circuit.
National Festival of Popular Arts
At the same time, Marrakech will host the 55th edition of the National Festival of Popular Arts from July 2-6.
One of Morocco’s oldest cultural gatherings, the festival celebrates the country’s rich intangible heritage through traditional music, dance and folklore.
Bringing together performers from across Morocco and abroad, the event serves as a platform for cultural dialogue and the preservation of regional traditions.
International University Theatre Festival of Casablanca
The performing arts will also take center stage during the 38th edition of the International University Theatre Festival of Casablanca, scheduled for July 4-9.
Organized by the Faculty of Letters and Human Sciences Ben M’Sik at Hassan II University of Casablanca, the festival will feature theatrical productions, artistic encounters and academic exchanges, highlighting the role of youth and higher education in cultural creation.
