Photo: Condé Nast Archives.
Each summer, our region plays host to a plethora of music festivals situated in historic sites that demonstrate the area’s rich history and deep-rooted culture. From happenings in Tunisia to Jordan, read on for the festivals you shouldn’t miss.
The Carthage Music Festival, Tunisia
July 13 – August 15
Taking place in the ancient Phoenician city of Carthage, this music festival is spread over a month and is held at a centuries-old, outdoor Roman amphitheater. Artists set to take to the stage include Tunisian singer Amina Fakhet, metal band Myriath, French DJ William Willy, Iraqi singer Kathem Al-Saher, and Franco-Algerian rapper L’Algérino, among many others.
festivaldecarthage.tn
Jerash Festival of Culture and Arts, Jordan
July 19 – July 28 in Jerash and July 29 – August 3 at Amman city
This year’s headliners include Emirati singer Ahlam and Yara. Now in its 33rd year, this predominantly Arabic music festival is steeped in history. With performances taking place on outdoor stages surrounded by the Roman city of Jerash’s ancient ruins, the festival (which is held every July) is one of Jordan’s most spectacular events.
jerashfestival.jo
Byblos International Festival, Lebanon
August 1 – August 23
This Lebanese festival is held in what is believed to be the first Phoenician city, founded around 5000 BC. One of the biggest attractions in the Levant country, this year’s 22-day-long musical event has something for everyone. Metal lovers will relish in performances by Tarja Turunen, while fans of Arabic music will undoubtedly appreciate Charbel Rouhana’s tribute to the legendary Sayyed Darwish. Also headlining the event is The Chainsmokers, who are set to kick off the performances.
byblosfestival.org
Chill O’pposite, Egypt
August 22 – August 25
This four-day long music festival is set to unfold at the former Bedouin fishing village of Dahab. Concerts will be held across several landmark venues that range from the mountaintops to the beaches in the southeast coast of Sinai. This year’s edition will feature 25 local and international acts, including ’90s deep house legend Nick Warren, German duo Just Emma, as well as local DJs from Egypt, Jordan, Palestine, and Lebanon.
chilloppositefestival.com
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