June 23: Gnaoua World Music Festival

We made it to day 2 of the Gnaoua World Music Festival and were treated to some outstanding Cuban music of Elidias Ochoa.  The place was packed with both Moroccans and plenty of tourists.  

The first edition of the Gnaoua World Music Festival in Essaouira took place 25 years ago. As noted on their website, "With over 40 concerts spread across venues throughout the city, this promises to be a celebration devoted to communication, joy and sharing the values that have always defined this cultural happening that is so uniquely Moroccan, and so deeply rooted in African soil." Besides the many concerts, the Festival Forum will address the topical issues of identity and belonging.

We also walked through the Medina where people shopped and relaxed at the many restaurants and cafes.  There was an underlying positive vibe on a beautiful summer evening.