The large public and free entrance happening are held on Moulay Hassan Square and the Meditel stage. The Festival also takes over the terrace of the Bab Marrakech Bastion for open air concerts. Dar Souiri and Zaouia Sidna Bilal will be the home of lilas and intimist concerts.

The main stages (outdoor -  free access)

Moulay Hassan Square

It is on the spacious esplanade in Moroccan/Portuguese style set against the ramparts of the medina that everything began. Moulay Hassan Square is the home of the mythical Festival stage. Since 1998, it has witnessed unforgettable fusions between the Gnaoua maalems and the greatest names on the jazz and
world music scene.

Meditel Stage

The Essaouira stage is one of Morocco’s most beautiful and paradise of kite surfers. It consists of a vast expanse of sand protected by the fishing port and Mogador Island. This stage built right on the beach is the venue for Moroccan and international artists of recognized talent. It is also audacious in its programming
through the presentation of fusions or residences focused around Gnawa music and present day music.

Intimate Concerts (ticket fees)

Borj Bab Marrakech

This is a new rehabilitated place used by the Festival. Built into the ramparts this massive 19th century tower designated historical monument once served as an ammunition dump. Today the terrace is the home of entrance fee open air concerts under the sparkling stars.

Friday and Saturday, 08:30 pm concert / 100 dhs

Friday and Saturday, midnight concert / 200dhs

Dar Souiri

This riad built in 1907 inside the ramparts was the home of the Provincial Authority in the days of the Protectorate. Today it is the seat of the Essaouira- Mogador Association and a space integrally dedicated to culture. During the Festival it is a venue for entrance fee concerts.

Thursday and Friday, starting 12:30 PM - 100 dhs for the evening

Saturday, starting midgnight -150 dhs for the evening

Zaouia Sidna Bilal

Freed slave, follower of the Prophet and Islam’s very first muezzin, Sidna Bilal is the spiritual ancestor of all Gnawa. The Zaouia bearing his name is in a typical 18th century Essaouira house. During the Festival it is the home of entrance fee lilas.

From Thursday to Saturday from 11:30 pm to 02:00 am - 100 dhs for the evening