Fez Festival Of World Sacred Music 2025

Program and Dates of the Festival in 2025, the 28th edition

The 2025 edition of the FEZ Festival of Sacred Music is poised to be a vibrant tapestry of sound and spirit, scheduled to unfold in the heart of Fez. This year, the festival is slated to run from May 16th to May 24th 2025, promising an array of performances that span the spectrum of the world's sacred musical traditions. The program is meticulously curated to include artists and ensembles that embody the festival's ethos of spiritual harmony and cultural dialogue.

Attendees can expect an immersive experience that not only showcases captivating musical performances but also includes enriching workshops, thought-provoking lectures, and engaging discussions aimed at deepening the understanding of the festival’s central themes. The venues—ranging from the majestic Bab Makina courtyard to the intimate ambiance of Dar Adiyel—offer the perfect backdrop for a profound fusion of sound and spirituality. Ticket prices range from $20 to $60 per performance, depending on the artist and venue. For those planning to enjoy the festival more extensively, a full festival pass is available for $350, providing access to all concerts and exclusive events. Here are some of the highlights of the 2025 program:

1- Renaissance, From Nature to the Sacred

Date, time and location: 16 May, 2025, at 19:30 in Bab el Makina

Price: Starting from $30

2- Monteverdi Festival in Fez

Date, time and location: 17 May, 2025, at 21:00 in Bab Al Makina

Price: $25

3- Istanbul Sufi Ceremonies Ensemble

Date, time and location: 18 May, 2025, at 21:00 in Bab Al Makina

Price: $25

4- 4femmes - Ariana Vafardi

Date, time and location: 19 May, 2025, at 17:00 in Jnan Sbil Garden

Price: $20

5- Chamber opera The Garden of Africa a place-name for an unsaid thing

Date, time and location: 20 May, 2025, at 21:00 in Jnan Sbil Garden

Price: $20

History of the Festival of Sacred Music in Fez

The Fez Festival of Sacred Music stands as a beacon of cultural and spiritual confluence, illuminating the historic city of Fez, Morocco. Established in 1994, the festival was born out of a vision to bridge divides and celebrate the universal language of music. Nestled within the ancient walls of Fez, a city renowned for its spiritual heritage, the festival quickly garnered international acclaim, attracting performers and attendees from across the globe. Its foundation was not merely to entertain but to enlighten, bringing together diverse musical traditions that share a sacred core. Over the years, the festival has transcended its initial scope, becoming a platform for dialogue among civilizations, cultures, and religions, echoing UNESCO's recognition of Fez as part of the World Heritage of Humanity.

The festival's genesis was inspired by the profound spiritual and intellectual history of Fez, once the capital of the Moroccan kingdom and a renowned center of learning and spirituality. Its organizers, drawing from the city's rich heritage, envisioned an event that would reflect Fez's historical role as a melting pot of cultures. By showcasing sacred music from various traditions, the festival aims to highlight shared values and the universal quest for transcendence and understanding. This commitment to spiritual unity and cultural exchange has defined the festival's ethos, making it a unique gathering that transcends conventional music festivals' boundaries.

The ticket price of a performance vary between $20 USD and $60 USD depending on the artist or band and the tiers available.

Things to Do during the Festival Period

The Fez Festival of Sacred Music offers more than just musical performances; it is an invitation to explore the cultural and spiritual landscape of Fez. Beyond the festival's program, visitors have a plethora of activities and experiences at their disposal, allowing for a deeper engagement with the city's heritage.

A must-do is exploring the medina of Fez, one of the world's largest urban pedestrian zones, offering a labyrinth of narrow streets alive with craftsmen, markets, and historic sites. Here, one can witness the traditional Moroccan crafts and way of life that has remained unchanged for centuries. Visiting the Bou Inania Madrasa, an architectural masterpiece of Marinid craftsmanship, provides insight into the Islamic scholarly tradition that Fez is renowned for.

Culinary enthusiasts will find the festival period an excellent opportunity to delve into Moroccan cuisine's rich flavors. Traditional Moroccan restaurants and street food stalls abound, offering delicacies like tagine, couscous, and mint tea. Participating in a cooking class can provide a hands-on experience with Moroccan cooking techniques and ingredients, deepening visitors' cultural immersion.

Lastly, the festival period is an ideal time for spiritual reflection and exploration. The city of Fez, with its numerous mosques, madrasas, and Sufi zaouias, offers a unique insight into Islamic spirituality and scholarship. While non-Muslims may not enter the mosques, the exteriors alone are a testament to the city's architectural and spiritual heritage. Engaging with local scholars or participating in festival-organized discussions can enrich one's understanding of the spiritual dimensions that the festival celebrates.

In conclusion, the Fez Festival of Sacred Music is not merely an event but a profound journey into the heart of cultural and spiritual unity. Through its rich history, diverse program, and the myriad activities available during the festival period, it invites attendees to explore the depths of human creativity and spirituality. The festival thus stands as a testament to the power of music and culture to bridge divides, fostering a world where understanding and peace prevail.