Utrecht’s TivoliVredenburg will host Imidiwan – Friends of the Desert on October 10 and 11, 2026, bringing together musicians from Algeria, Mauritania and Mali.
The venue’s announced festival lineup includes Imarhan, Tamikrest, Songhoy Blues, Samba Touré and Noura Mint Seymali. The two-day programme places desert blues alongside the stories of its performers and Tuareg communities.
Sunday programme
On October 11, doors open at 6:45 p.m. Songhoy Blues is scheduled for 7:30 p.m., followed by Tamikrest at 9 p.m. A special guest session featuring Aziz Ossous, Terna Diawara, Samira Dainan and others is listed for 10:20 p.m.
According to TivoliVredenburg, Imidiwan means “my friends” in Tamashek. Saturday’s activities also include a keynote, film screening and market.
At the time of checking on October 5, the venue listed Saturday tickets and festival passes as sold out, with Sunday tickets still available from €35 including service fees. Readers should check the venue for current availability and programme changes.