The 5th edition of the Sidi Rabeh Maghrebi Festival began on October 2, 2026, in Sidi Rabeh, part of the Saqia Sidi Yusuf delegation in the Kef governorate. The festival, which runs until October 4, features a diverse program blending traditional equestrianism, folk arts, and cultural and heritage activities. This year's event brings together teams from Tunisia, Algeria, Morocco, Libya, and Mauritania, as well as groups from various Tunisian governorates.
The first day of the festival included welcoming guests and participating delegations, followed by the opening ceremony and traditional folk art performances, accompanied by an evening concert featuring participating groups. The program for the second day includes traditional equestrian competitions and performances by participating groups, along with cultural workshops, intellectual meetings, and heritage-themed evenings.
On the final day, October 4, the festival will feature musical and folk performances, honoring several individuals who contributed to the event's success, before concluding with a closing concert. The festival also showcases local and Maghrebi heritage through an exhibition of traditional cuisine and handicrafts, allowing visitors to explore aspects of popular heritage and associated products and skills.
In conjunction with the festival, a health village is being launched as part of the accompanying activities, offering additional services to participants and visitors. The intellectual aspect of the festival is represented by the First Maghrebi Intellectual Forum, which will take place on October 3, focusing on the theme of Maghrebi heritage between memory and oblivion.
The forum will address the preservation and valorization of heritage, seeking new approaches to transform this cultural wealth into an active element in cultural, tourist, and developmental life. Traditional equestrianism stands out as one of the festival's key events, alongside artistic and folk performances, providing the audience with a scene that combines entertainment and the revival of popular memory.
The festival's organization is overseen by the relevant authorities, ensuring a well-structured event that highlights the cultural and artistic richness of the region. The participation of teams from various countries and Tunisian governorates adds a significant dimension to the festival, promoting cultural exchange and understanding.
As the festival comes to a close on October 4, it will have provided a platform for cultural and artistic expression, celebrating the shared heritage and specificities of the participating countries. The event's success is a testament to the importance of preserving and promoting cultural heritage in the region.
Key points
- The festival celebrates Maghrebi heritage through traditional equestrianism, folk arts, and cultural activities.
