Mali Events and Festivals

1/01/2010 - 1/31/2010Festival in the Desert

Held since 2001, the Festival in the Desert has developed from a curiosity into a recognised event. Played out over three days in mid-January, it takes place near the small desert town of Essakane, near Tombouctou (Timbuktu). The festival format is cultural and traditional events during the day and, as the light fades, the desert is bathed in lights and the music begins. Robert Plant has appeared here but emphasis is given to Saharan and African music. The daytime events include exhibitions, camel rides and 'tinde' songs by desert women. The festival has its origin in the ending of the Tamashek war in 1996, when there was a ceremonial burning of weapons and a festival of music and dance to mark the occasion.