Festival MED 2025 is set to once again transform the historic town of Loulé, in Portugal’s Algarve region, into a vibrant and immersive celebration of world music and culture. Taking place from June 26 to 29, this 21st edition of the festival promises a remarkable musical experience.
Renowned as one of the most respected world music festivals in Europe, Festival MED stands out for its ability to blend artistic excellence with authenticity. For four days, the narrow cobbled streets and historic plazas of Loulé will become stages for a unique fusion of sounds.
The 2025 edition will feature over 54 performances from 338 musicians representing around 30 countries, all spread across five main stages nestled within the old town. Each stage offers a distinct ambiance, allowing audiences to move from intimate acoustic sets to high-energy concerts that keep the rhythms going until 3 a.m. each night.
This year, Cape Verde, located in the central Atlantic Ocean, off the west coast of Africa, approximately 350 miles (ca. 563 km) west of Senegal, has been chosen as the featured guest country. Augusto Veiga, the Minister of Culture of Cape Verde, will be one of the special guests.
The archipelago’s rich musical traditions will take center stage, with artists and bands such as the Cesária Évora Orchestra, Dino D’Santiago (born in the Algarve) & Os Tubarões, Ceuzany, Carmen Souza (born in Lisbon).
Also featured, Ferro Gaita bringing the infectious rhythms of morna, coladeira, funaná, and the best of world beat. A recreated Cape Verdean courtyard within the Espírito Santo Convent will offer not just music but also traditional gastronomy (come try the famous Cachupa) and crafts, providing an immersive window into the soul of Cape Verde.
The festival’s musical lineup is impressive. Portuguese fado will be represented by renowned artists like Carminho, while A Garota Não brings a contemporary blend of poetry and pop. International acts include Vieux Farka Touré from Mali, known for his virtuosic guitar work and desert blues style; Sílvia Pérez Cruz and Salvador Sobral from Spain and Portugal respectively, performing together in a much-anticipated duet; and a wealth of talent from countries like Colombia (Systema Solar), Cuba (Alain Pérez), Argentina (El Sonidero Insurgente), Egypt (Balqeis Live), Congo (Fulu Miziki), Algeria (Sofiane Saïdi), the UK (Justin Adams), Jamaica (The Congos & The Gladiators), France (Léonie Pernet), Wales (Cerys Hafana), Angola (Paulo Flores), Trinidad & Tobago (Queen Omega), and many others.
Festival MED, however, is more than just music. It is a multidisciplinary celebration that encompasses cinema, theater, visual arts, literature, handicrafts, dance, and even a dedicated area for children, known as “MED Kids.” Throughout the festival, visitors can participate in workshops, attend conferences, and witness spontaneous street performances that bring every corner of Loulé to life with creativity.
One of the core strengths of Festival MED is its ability to stimulate the local economy while preserving cultural authenticity. With more than 10,000 visitors attending each day, around 30% of whom are international tourists, the festival provides a significant boost to local businesses.
Tickets are affordably priced, making the event accessible to a wide audience. Until June 22, daily passes cost €10, with a full festival pass available for €30. Family packages (2 adults + 2 children) are offered at €35 per day. After June 23, prices rise slightly to €15 for a daily ticket and €40 for the full event. The Open Day on June 29 is entirely free, inviting the public to join in the celebration without any cost barrier.
Attendees are encouraged to plan ahead to make the most of their experience. Staying in Loulé itself or in nearby Algarve towns ensures easy access to the festival’s various stages and activities. Festival-goers should also come prepared with cash and small change for street vendors, food stalls, and craft markets, which often feature local and handmade products.
A unique element of the festival is its careful planning and sustainability ethos. Organizers prioritize eco-friendly practices (such as the installation of water fountains in key areas) and community involvement, with a strong focus on promoting intercultural dialogue, environmental awareness, and social inclusion. The result is not just an event, but a model for how cultural festivals can act as catalysts for positive change.
Ultimately, Festival MED 2025 invites visitors into a world where music transcends borders and cultures intermingle freely. In a time when global divisions and wars can feel overwhelming, this festival offers a joyful reminder of our shared humanity, expressed through rhythm, movement, and connection. Whether you’re a seasoned world music enthusiast or a curious traveler seeking a deeper cultural experience, Loulé, in the south of Portugal, promises an unforgettable journey.
More information at festivalmed.cm-loule.pt/en
Author: Rafael Mieses
