The Taragalte Music Festival was first established in 2009 in M’Hamid El Ghizlane, a small oasis town located in the Moroccan Sahara, near the Algerian border. This festival was created to celebrate and preserve the rich musical and cultural heritage of the nomadic tribes of the Sahara Desert. Inspired by the traditions of the Tuareg and Berber communities, the festival brings together artists from across North Africa and the Sahel region, along with international musicians who share an interest in the music and culture of the desert.
The founders of the festival, including Abdelaziz Bouyaboun, aimed to create a platform that promotes cultural exchange and understanding. The festival’s name, “Taragalte,” refers to the ancient name for the region of M’Hamid El Ghizlane, symbolizing a connection to the area’s historical roots. Over the years, Taragalte has evolved into a vibrant celebration of desert culture, featuring performances by traditional musicians, poets, storytellers, and contemporary artists.
Traditionally held each year in November, the Taragalte Music Festival invites visitors to experience the magic of the Sahara Desert under the starlit sky. The 2024 edition of the festival is scheduled for November 1-3. Over three days, attendees can enjoy a variety of musical performances, workshops, and cultural activities that highlight the unique heritage of the desert communities. Set against the backdrop of the stunning dunes of M’Hamid El Ghizlane, the festival offers a unique and immersive experience for music lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike.
