Sunday June 30th, 2024
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Summer Music Festivals Around the Region that are Worth Travelling for

From the glitz and glamour of Egypt’s El Gouna to the mountain-side charm of Lebanon’s Batroun – these are the region’s hottest summer music festivals.

Raïs Saleh

Summer Music Festivals Around the Region that are Worth Travelling for

As the familiar warmth of summer envelopes the bronze-skinned among us and cooks those of us with fairer and non-sun-bearing complexions, raver-approved summer music festivals are popping up all across the region, providing serial-travellers with an excuse to book yet another flight to a novel neighbouring country.

From the sun-drenched beaches of Egypt to the lush mountains of Lebanon, these festivals offer regional and global travellers with a musical ear and/or a party-animal persona, a tourism trifecta consisting of culture, music, and nature.

Aegis Festival

📍Batroun, Lebanon
📅July 12th-14th

Set amidst the lush greenery of Arnaoon Village in Lebanon’s Batroun, Aegis Festival is a celebration of dance music and cultural fusion. Against the backdrop of majestic mountains and verdant landscapes, this festival brings together renowned electronic music artists from across the globe for a weekend of non-stop entertainment and revelry.

Known for its stunning beaches, historic landmarks, and vibrant cultural scene, Batroun offers travellers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern sophistication. You can wander through the narrow cobblestone streets of the old town, where ancient churches and traditional Lebanese houses stand as a testament to the city's rich history, or choose to relax on the sun-drenched shores of its pristine beaches, where azure waters beckon swimmers and sunbathers alike. Once your stomach begins its low rumbling, you can Indulge in fresh seafood and traditional Lebanese cuisine at seaside restaurants, or sip on locally-produced wines at charming vineyards nestled in the nearby hills.


Oakenfest

📍Lehfed, Lebanon
📅July 19th-21st


Nestled amidst the tranquil oak trees of Lehfed in North Lebanon, Oakenfest emerges as more than just a music festival—it's a harmonious blend of cultural immersion, environmental stewardship, and community celebration. Founded by Lebanese activist Elsa Saade, this independent festival celebrates artistic expression while championing local tourism and eco-consciousness.

Beyond the vibrant beats and melodies, Oakenfest offers a holistic experience, with camping facilities, artisanal markets showcasing local goods, and a food court serving traditional Lebanese cuisine. Restrooms with showers and a community kitchen further enhance the festival's amenities, ensuring attendees feel at home amidst nature's embrace.

Istanbul Jazz Festival

📍Istanbul, Turkiye
📅July 3rd-18th


The 31st edition of the Istanbul Jazz Festival will take place in the ancient city in July. Organised by the Istanbul Foundation for Culture and Arts, the acclaimed jazz festival is set to host more than 200 artists, both regional and international. This year’s festival is set to host Chris Isaak, Gregory Porter, Joshua Redman amongst other acts spanning a number of 40 concerts.

Istanbul’s mystique and grand Ottoman architecture serve as the ideal backdrop for the two-week festival, where one can indulge in the famous bustling nightlife of the city and its notoriously diverse and delicious cuisine.

YellowPlus Present Cassian & Woo York

📍Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
📅July 4th-5th


Headlined by acclaimed Afterlife artists Cassian and Woo York, the anticipated weekend festival in the eclectic capital city of Riydah is all about celebrating melodic techno.

Known for its vibrant decorations, creative stage designs and state-of-the-art sound and visual effects, YellowPlus offers audiences (and travellers) a musical experience that’s all about the best of the best – this applies to everything from the tunes to the tech.

Soundscape Festival

📍Istanbul, Turkey
📅August 10th-11th


Masterfully blending music, art, culture and nature, the Soundscape Festival is as holistic as a music festival gets. With plans to host 15,000 musically-inclined partygoers and nature enthusiasts, the festival is showcasing some of the world’s most promising and established artists across three varied stages in the middle of Istanbul’s breathtaking natural surroundings.

Previous editions of the festival featured performances from renowned electronic music artists like The Blaze, Monolink, FKJ, Valeron, Be Svendsen, Ash, Jan Blomqvist and Red Axes.
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