A Look Back at Tunisia’s 2024 Summer Music Festivals



The summer of 2024 in Tunisia was nothing short of spectacular, as the country’s historic venues hosted some of the most iconic music festivals. Three major events stood out: the International Festival of Carthage, the International Festival of Hammamet, and the International Festival of Dougga, each offering unforgettable performances from international stars and local legends alike. 

1. Festival International de Carthage 2024

From July 17 to August 18, the International Festival of Carthage once again took over the majestic Roman amphitheater. This year's edition featured a powerful blend of Arab and international music, classical performances, and even theatrical productions. The historic venue provided the perfect backdrop for the musical magic that unfolded each night.

One of the festival's highlights was Asala Nasri (Syria), who delivered a spellbinding performance. Known for her powerful voice and emotional depth, Asala captivated the audience with a mix of classic and contemporary Arab songs, creating one of the most talked-about concerts of the festival.

Another unforgettable moment came from The Wailers (Jamaica), whose legendary reggae tunes brought a touch of the Caribbean to Tunisia. Performing hits from their time with Bob Marley, they energized the audience with timeless classics like "One Love" and "No Woman, No Cry."

The Arab music legend Kadhem Saher (Iraq) also graced the Carthage stage, performing his poetic ballads that have earned him the title "Caesar of Arabic Music." His deep, emotive voice and romantic lyrics resonated with fans, creating an atmosphere full of love and nostalgia.

Pop superstar Wael Kfoury (Lebanon) brought his signature romantic ballads to the amphitheater, enthralling the crowd with his smooth vocals and charisma. His performance of hits like "Tabki El Tiyour" and "Ghariba" kept fans on their feet all night.

Adding a touch of Egyptian class, Amal Maher wowed audiences with her strong vocals and elegant performance. A star of Arabic classical music, Amal delivered a stunning show that highlighted her musical prowess and left the crowd yearning for more.

Families flocked to the unique performance of Snow White on Ice, where professional figure skaters brought the beloved fairy tale to life with dazzling choreography. This family-friendly show provided a magical break from the festival’s concert-heavy program, delighting both children and adults alike.

2. Festival International de Hammamet 2024

Running from July 05 to August 03, the International Festival de Hammamet offered a more intimate atmosphere but with no less star power. Set in the scenic Centre Culturel International de Hammamet, overlooking the Mediterranean, the festival’s open-air stage was a favorite for both performers and attendees.

Ÿuma, the Tunisian indie-folk duo, kicked off the festival with their soulful tunes. Known for their melodic fusion of Arabic and Western styles, their performance was a highlight for local and international fans alike【source】.

Flamenco enthusiasts were treated to the virtuosity of Tomatito (Spain), whose guitar mastery set the stage alight. His passionate performance was one of the festival's most celebrated, merging technical brilliance with deep emotional resonance.

Legendary desert blues band Tinariwen (Mali) brought their hypnotic Tuareg rhythms to Hammamet, creating an almost spiritual experience for the audience. Their unique sound, rooted in the traditions of the Sahara, was one of the festival’s standout moments【source】.

3. Festival International de Dougga 2024

Set against the backdrop of the ancient Roman city of Dougga, this festival took place from June 29 to July 10, and offered a unique blend of music, culture, and history. The ancient ruins provided an awe-inspiring venue, turning every performance into a journey through time.

Tunisian oud master Anouar Brahem enchanted the crowd with his intricate compositions that blend Arabic classical music with jazz influences. His performance was nothing short of mesmerizing, making it a highlight of the festival【source】.

Reggae, rock, and Arabic music fans enjoyed a variety of performances, including the energetic set by Egyptian rock band Cairokee. Their socially conscious lyrics and powerful stage presence made them a favorite with the young audience【source】【source】.

The festival also offered a more immersive experience by introducing a co-housing project where visitors stayed with local families in nearby villages. This allowed for a deeper cultural exchange and gave attendees a chance to experience Tunisian hospitality firsthand.

4. Cultural and Gastronomic Experiences

In addition to the music, Tunisia’s 2024 festivals offered a range of cultural and culinary experiences. At Dougga, food stalls showcased the best of local cuisine, allowing visitors to taste traditional dishes from the region, such as Brik, Tajine, and various couscous specialties【source】. 

Workshops and sustainability initiatives were also held at Dougga, with discussions focused on the future of cultural management in Africa. These workshops helped young local artists develop skills and forge connections that could help them in their future careers【source】.

Conclusion

Tunisia’s 2024 summer festival season was a celebration of music, culture, and history. Whether it was the timeless allure of the Carthage amphitheater, the coastal charm of Hammamet, or the ancient magic of Dougga, each festival offered its own unique experience. From the reggae rhythms of The Wailers to the operatic drama of Carmen en tunisien, and the poetic sounds of Kadhem Saher, this past summer was one for the books.

For those who missed it, these festivals will surely return in 2025 with even more to offer, cementing Tunisia’s place as a cultural hotspot on the global stage.