Carthage International Festival

Welcome to Carthage International Festival, Tunis Metropole

The Carthage International Festival is an esteemed summer celebration of music, theatre, and dance held annually in the ancient city of Carthage within the Tunis Metropole, Tunisia. Since its inception in 1964, the festival has become a cultural highlight, attracting regional and international artists. The 59th edition ran from July 19 to August 21, 2025, with a grand symphonic opening and headline performances by Ahlam, Latifa, and Sofia Sadek. 

Historical Context

Carthage is steeped in history, with layers of Punic, Roman, Byzantine, and early Christian heritage visible across its archaeological landscape. The festival takes place amid these evocative ruins, blending vibrant contemporary culture with millennia of history. 

Landmarks

• Roman Theatre of Carthage: an ancient amphitheater hosting festival performances amid historic ruins.
• Circus of Carthage: a monumental Roman chariot-racing stadium, among the largest fora of its type in antiquity. 
• Byrsa Hill: the heart of ancient Carthage offering panoramic views and access to archaeological layers.

Museums

• Carthage National Museum

  Houses archaeological finds from the Punic, Roman, and Byzantine periods, including mosaics, sculptures, a marble sarcophagus, and jewelry.

  Opening Hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 8:30 AM–5:30 PM. Closed Mondays.

  Ticket Price: Approx. USD 5 for adults; USD 2.50 for students/children under 12. 

• Carthage Paleo‑Christian Museum

  Archaeological museum built above a Carthaginian basilica, featuring Paleochristian mosaics and artifacts dating to Roman and early Christian eras.

  Opening Hours and Ticket Price: Varies; visitors should verify locally, as it lies within the wider archaeology parks accessible typically during daylight and under the shared site ticket of Carthage excavations. 

Tips for Visitors

• Plan a full day to tour the archaeological sites and museum—expect significant walking. 
• For entrance to the excavations and museum, a ticket costs approximately 10 Tunisian dinars, plus 1 dinar for photography. Summer hours: 8 AM–7 PM; winter hours: 8:30 AM–5 PM. 

Sources

• Festival details: press lineup announcement and schedule from the 59th edition (opening July 19–August 21, 2025). 
• Roman Theatre and Circus of Carthage: archaeological descriptions from scholarly historical sources. 
• Carthage National Museum: collection and practical visitor info including hours and ticket prices. 
• Carthage Paleo‑Christian Museum: history and collection overview from archaeological resources. 
• Site ticket prices and opening hours for Carthage excavations and museums.