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THE CARNIVAL’S HERITAGE

The history of the Aoussou Carnival

From sea bathing in the Sahel summer to the grand parade in Sousse: the celebration from 1958 to the present day.

Sousse · Tunisia Since 1958
OVER SIXTY YEARS OF CELEBRATION

The Sousse carnival, edition by edition

Born by the sea in 1958, the Aoussou Carnival has known golden ages, silences and rebirths. Here is its story: the legend of the sea god, the birth of the parade, then a chapter for each edition since its return in 2015, with its photos, its video and what the press said about it. Since 2022, each year’s thread also traces, date by date, every event organised by the association.

01
THE ORIGINS

Aoussou, the season of the sea

In the agrarian calendar inherited from the Berbers, Aoussou is the period of great heat that begins at the end of July and lasts until the end of summer. On the coast of the Tunisian Sahel, this season has always had a festive air: the sea water is said to be good for you, and people bathe asking Aoussou to carry away “the pain they feel”.

Tradition links these festivities to a very ancient cult of the sea god, whom the Romans are said to have identified with Neptune and whose roots some trace back to the Phoenicians. Legend or distant memory, it gave the carnival its central figure: Aoussou, the sea god, whom the people of Sousse affectionately call “Baba Aoussou”.

02
1958

The birth of the carnival

The modern carnival was born in 1958, just after independence. It was the creation of theatre people from Sousse, among them Abdelhafidh Bouraoui, whom the association honours as its founder, Mohamed Zarkati and Hamed Zaghdan. From the outset, the celebration was tied to the anniversary of the proclamation of the Republic on 25 July 1957: on the night of 25 July, fireworks light up the sky and the parade takes over the Boujaafar seafront.

The Aoussou float, carrying the sea god, became its emblem. The character was played in turn by Hamed Zaghdan, Habib Bettaieb and then Bouraoui El Ouahichi. Around him parade symbolic floats, brass bands, folk troupes and giant puppets: today the Aoussou Carnival is presented as one of the oldest carnivals in Africa and the Arab world.

03
MILESTONES

A celebration spanning the decades

For more than half a century, the July event set the rhythm of summer in Sousse. Amateur films and television archives from the 1970s, 2000s and 2009s show the same crowds packed along the corniche, the same floats and the same troupes moving slowly towards the sea. Residents, holidaymakers and tourists gathered there every year.

04
TWO SILENCES

Interruptions and returns

After 2010, the carnival went quiet for four years. Announced for summer 2014, its return was eventually postponed for organisational and financial reasons. The celebration was reborn on 26 July 2015 with the 56th edition, just a few weeks after the attack that struck Sousse: a parade followed by an immense crowd, and a symbol.

After the 59th edition in 2018, a new pause began. The Covid-19 pandemic and financial difficulties prevented the carnival from taking place in 2020 and 2021. Scheduled for summer 2022, the 60th edition was postponed: all that took place that summer was a day of street workout on Boujaafar beach and a performance by an Algerian ballet company on Twin Cities Square.

05
THE REVIVAL

Since 2023, a carnival all year round

On 16 April 2022, the association’s general assembly elected Walid Ben Hassen as its president. In July 2023, the 60th edition, “Aoussou, the Joy of the Country”, brought the grand parade back to the Sidi Boujaafar corniche. It was followed by “Aoussou, Sea and Peace” in 2024, “Aoussou, Sea and Arts” in 2025 and “Aoussou, Art and Heritage” in 2026.

The festival now spans two weeks: a day of beach games, free concerts on Twin Cities Square, Republic Day fireworks, an evening of foreign troupes at Port El Kantaoui and a grand parade of floats built in Sousse’s workshops. Between editions, the association takes its floats and troupes on tour: to the Brunswick carnival in Germany, the Kalâa Seghira Pomegranate Festival and the Kalâa Kebira Olive Festival. In 2024, the carnival joined the Network of Silk Road Arts Festivals.

MEMORIES

Images of the past

13 videos

Amateur films, television archives and first-hand accounts: the carnival as Sousse lived it in the 1970s, 2000s and 2009s, told by those who keep its memory alive.

Archives · 19712:12

Aoussou 1971

Carnaval Aoussou1971Archives · 19773:26

كرنفال أوسو سنة 1977 بسوسة

TV ArchiveArchives · 200122:56

من استعراض أوسو جويلية 2001 ــ سوسة ــ تونس

NESRINE SALAHArchives · 20026:50

استعراض اوسو سوسة ــ 24 جويلية 2002

صالح المانسيArchives · 20065:17

Aoussou en mémoire 2006

Carnaval AoussouArchives · 20098:57

Sousse, Tunesien: Carnaval Awesso / Festival d'Aoussou 2009 Part 2

UWassenberg2009Archives · 20091:02

Souvenir sousse aoussou 2009

megwani2009Archives · 20099:36

Sousse, Tunesien: Carnaval Awesso / Festival d'Aoussou 2009 Part 1

UWassenberg63rd edition · 20263:53

الدكتور أحمد الباهي و تاريخ كرنفال اوسو

Sousse d’avant62nd edition · 202511:42

من الذاكرة: كرنفال اوسو

Tunisia Mag60th edition · 20232:06

"يا بابا أوسو نحيلي الداء إلي نحسو" : هذه حكاية إستعراض أوسو في دورته الستين

Radio RM FM60th edition · 202359:56

ذكريات الماضي القريب لمدينة سوسة ...تاريخ مهرجان باب أوسو

Sahel Tunisian Voice1:35

أجواء مميزة في يوم الألعاب الشاطئية بعثت الفرحة وأعادت أحلى الذكريات لرواد شاطئ بوجعفر

Carnaval Aoussou
THE EDITIONS

Chapter by chapter

8 editions
56thedition
CHAPTER · 2015

The 56th edition, in 2015

DATES26 July to 13 August 2015
VENUESBoujaafar corniche · Boujaafar beach

After four years’ absence, the carnival returned to Sousse on Sunday 26 July 2015, a few weeks after the attack that had plunged the city into mourning. The opening parade covered more than two kilometres along the Boujaafar corniche: the Aoussou float led the way, followed by the “Riches of the Sea”, “Culture” and “Sousse, History” floats, troupes and giant puppets. According to the organisers, more than 150,000 spectators turned out to watch.

Troupes from Russia, Algeria, China and France joined the Tunisian performers.

Highlights

  1. Opening parade on the Boujaafar corniche, marking the carnival’s return.
  2. Closing ceremony on Boujaafar beach with the “Wedding of the Sea” fireworks display.

Photos: association archives

The 56th edition page
57thedition
CHAPTER · 2016

The 57th edition, in 2016

“Tunisia Is Still Celebrating”

DATESJuly 2016
VENUESRassif el Founoun (Bab Bhar) · Habib Bourguiba Avenue · Boujaafar beach · El Kantaoui

The 57th edition brought Sousse and El Kantaoui to life over several days in July. It ended on 26 July with the grand parade: setting off at 18:30 from Rassif el Founoun, near Bab Bhar, it made its way along Habib Bourguiba Avenue to Boujaafar beach, with some thirteen floats and more than 1,500 artists and dancers.

Troupes from Russia, France and Algeria joined the celebrations.

Highlights

  1. Grand parade from Rassif el Founoun to Boujaafar beach.

Photos: association archives

The 57th edition page
58thedition
CHAPTER · 2017

The 58th edition, in 2017

DATESJuly 2017
VENUESTwin Cities Square · Habib Bourguiba Avenue · Boujaafar corniche · Borj Khadija beach · Port El Kantaoui

The 58th edition marked the return of the fireworks: on 25 July, for Republic Day, they lit up the sky over Sousse once again after several years’ absence. The next day, the grand parade brought together brass bands, majorettes, floats and giant puppets, from the port to the Boujaafar corniche.

The programme opened with a day of entertainment for holidaymakers and welcomed the National Ballet of Burkina Faso; troupes from Algeria also joined the festivities.

Highlights

  1. A day of entertainment on Twin Cities Square and Boujaafar beach.
  2. Performance by the National Ballet of Burkina Faso.
  3. Republic Day fireworks.
  4. Grand parade, from 18:30.
  5. Street arts performances at Port El Kantaoui.

Photos: association archives

The 58th edition page
59thedition
CHAPTER · 2018

The 59th edition, in 2018

DATESJuly 2018
VENUESBoujaafar corniche · Port El Kantaoui

On the eve of the parade, a half-hour fireworks display set off by French pyrotechnicians opened the festivities. On Thursday 26 July, the procession of the 59th edition paraded for more than two hours along the Boujaafar corniche: the sea god, on the Aoussou float, wore the shirt of Étoile Sportive du Sahel; the “Riches of the Sea” float, Sufi troupes and a Tunisian-Algerian vintage car parade completed the show.

Troupes from Nice, Algeria and Russia took part in the edition, which was extended with a mini-carnival and street performances at Port El Kantaoui.

Highlights

  1. Thirty-minute fireworks display on the eve of the parade.
  2. Grand parade on the Boujaafar corniche.

Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

The 59th edition page
2022preparation
CHAPTER · 2022

2022 · preparing the 60th edition

DATESSummer 2022 · edition postponed
VENUESSousse Cultural Complex · Boujaafar beach · Twin Cities Square

On 16 April 2022, the association’s elective general assembly, meeting at the Sousse Cultural Complex, elected Walid Ben Hassen as president. The new team immediately set about preparing the return of the carnival, absent since 2018: the 60th edition was scheduled for the summer.

Initially announced for July, the parade was postponed because it coincided with the referendum of 25 July. It was then planned for 28 August, with entertainment days from 17 July, before finally being cancelled, mainly for logistical reasons. Only a street workout day on Boujaafar beach and a performance by an Algerian ballet company on Twin Cities Square took place that summer: the 60th edition would be held in July 2023.

Highlights

  1. Elective general assembly: Walid Ben Hassen elected president of the association.
  2. Announced launch of the entertainment days.
  3. Date once set for the 60th edition parade, which was ultimately cancelled.
The 2022 thread · 3 events

  1. Elective general assembly: Walid Ben Hassen elected president

    Cultural Complex, Sousse

    Meeting at the Sousse Cultural Complex in the presence of a bailiff, the elective general assembly of the Aoussou Parade Association elected Walid Ben Hassen as president; he thanked the members for their trust.

    Photos: Walid Ben Hassen

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  2. Call for a citizens’ campaign for the festival’s return

    Sousse

    Walid Ben Hassen proposes a citizens’ campaign to clean up and beautify Sousse to mark the return of the Aoussou Festival.

  3. Entertainment days for the 60th edition

    Sousse

    The launch of the entertainment days is announced for 17 July, ahead of a 60th edition carnival then planned for 28 August.

    Photos: Walid Ben Hassen

    View the post ↗
60thedition
CHAPTER · 2023

The 60th edition, in 2023

“Aoussou, the Joy of the Country”

DATES9 to 27 July 2023
VENUESSidi Boujaafar corniche · Twin Cities Square · Port El Kantaoui

After several years’ absence, the 60th edition gave the carnival back to its public. On 24 July, the grand parade took over the Sidi Boujaafar corniche, in the presence of the Minister of Cultural Affairs, Hayet Guettat Guermazi, the Minister of Tourism, Mohamed Moez Belhassine, and the Governor of Sousse, Nabil Ferjani. Nearly 2,000 participants accompanied the floats, which were built in Sousse’s workshops.

Troupes from Libya, Algeria, Egypt, Syria and Poland joined the Tunisian performers. Saber Rebai gave a free concert, and the edition ended at Port El Kantaoui to the sound of the Polish orchestra Grandioso Radom.

Highlights

  1. Free concert by Saber Rebai on Twin Cities Square.
  2. Grand parade of the 60th edition on the Sidi Boujaafar corniche.
  3. Republic Day fireworks, at 22:00.
  4. Closing at Port El Kantaoui: a second fireworks display and the Grandioso Radom orchestra.

Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

The 2023 thread · 40 events

  1. Registration to build the floats

    Sousse

    The association invites artists to register to build the carnival floats.

    Photos: Walid Ben Hassen

  2. Call for parade troupes

    Sousse

    The carnival calls on Tunisian and foreign troupes wishing to perform in it.

    Photos: Walid Ben Hassen

    View the post ↗

  3. Welcome to the 60th edition

    Sousse

    The 60th edition of the Aoussou Carnival is officially announced.

    Photos: Walid Ben Hassen

    View the post ↗

  4. Launch of the 60th edition workshop

    Sousse

    Under the patronage of the governor, the workshop begins preparing the 60th edition with Tunisian talent.

    Photos: Walid Ben Hassen

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  5. Meeting at the Ministry of Tourism on the 60th edition

    Ministry of Tourism, Tunis

    At the Ministry of Tourism, a meeting prepares the 60th edition with Governor Nabil Ferjani, the regional tourism commissioner and the Municipality of Sousse.

    Photos: Walid Ben Hassen

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  6. Practical training course in carnival arts

    Sousse

    A call for applications is launched for a practical training course in sculpture and carnival techniques.

    Photos: Walid Ben Hassen

  7. Call for talent: props and costumes

    Sousse

    The carnival once again opens participation in designing props and costumes.

    Photos: Walid Ben Hassen

  8. First casting session (6 July 2023)

    Youth Complex, Sousse

    The first casting session is held at the Sousse Youth Complex.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

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  9. Props and costumes workshop opens

    Sousse

    The props and costumes workshop opens its doors and invites the public to help make them.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

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  10. New casting session

    Sousse

    In response to high demand, the festival opens a new casting session for ages 10 to 60.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

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  11. Work continues in the workshops

    Sousse

    A video shows that work is continuing in the workshops.

  12. Training session for casting participants (13 July 2023)

    Sousse

    The artistic committee calls the casting participants to a training session on the carnival tableaux on 13 July.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

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  13. Announcement: “Happy Boujaafar” day

    Boujaafar beach, Sousse

    The “Happy Boujaafar” day is announced: a sandcastle competition at 9:00 and a Mousse Beach Party at 15:00.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

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  14. Press conference (announcement)

    Sousse

    The festival’s press conference is announced.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

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  15. Partnership with ODV+

    Tunisia

    Partner ODV+ provides urban billboard advertising and broadcasts the carnival on giant LED screens across the country.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

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  16. Props and costume design workshop

    Sousse

    Work continues at the carnival props and costume design workshop.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

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  17. Photos of the 60th edition press conference

    Marriott Hotel, Sousse

    The 60th edition press conference is held at the Marriott Hotel in Sousse.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

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  18. Beach activities day

    Boujaafar beach, Sousse

    The beach activities day opens with a sandcastle competition in a festive atmosphere.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

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  19. Aoussou, the joy of the nation

    Sousse

    The promotional video “Aoussou, farhet lebled” (“Aoussou, the joy of the country”) is released.

  20. Carnival posters in Tunis

    Tunis and Ariana

    Aoussou Carnival posters spring up across Tunis and Ariana: in Ennasr, on Avenue Mohamed V, at Place Pasteur and at Les Berges du Lac.

    Photos: Walid Ben Hassen

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  21. The carnival on the giant screens of Tunis

    Tunis and other cities

    Giant screens in Tunis and other cities display the colours of the Aoussou Carnival.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

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  22. Announcement: free Saber Rebai concert (21 July 2023)

    Twin Cities Square, Boujaafar, Sousse

    Saber Rebai is announced for a free concert on Friday 21 July at Twin Cities Square, for an evening open to all.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

  23. Full programme of the 60th edition

    Sousse

    The full programme of the 60th edition is unveiled: Saber Rebai on Friday 21 July, followed by the carnival on Monday 24 July.

    Photos: Walid Ben Hassen

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  24. Journalists’ badges for the 60th edition

    Sousse

    The page tells accredited media how to collect their badges for the 60th edition.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

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  25. Saber Rebai concert

    Twin Cities Square, Sousse

    On 21 July, tens of thousands of Tunisians, Algerians and foreign visitors attend Saber Rebai’s concert on Twin Cities Square.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

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  26. Bus for journalists on 24 July 2023

    Sousse

    Together with the Société de transport du Sahel, an air-conditioned bus takes the journalists covering the carnival of 24 July 2023.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

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  27. Are you ready for the event?

    Sousse

    On the eve of the parade, the page launches the countdown to the 60th edition carnival.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

  28. Republic Day fireworks

    Sousse

    On the night of 25 July 2023, the Aoussou Carnival fireworks light up the sky over Sousse for Republic Day.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

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  29. Second fireworks display at Port El Kantaoui (26 July 2023)

    Port El Kantaoui

    On Wednesday 26 July at 22:00, the edition closes at Port El Kantaoui with a second fireworks display, featuring the Grandioso orchestra from Radom, Poland, and several troupes.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

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  30. Behind the scenes of the parade preparations

    Sousse

    These photos reveal the behind-the-scenes preparations for the 60th edition parade.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

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  31. The Aoussou Carnival returns before a large crowd

    Streets of Sousse

    The carnival returns before a large crowd, in the presence of the Minister of Cultural Affairs, the Minister of Tourism and the Governor of Sousse.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

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  32. Thanks after the 60th edition

    Sousse

    Walid Ben Hassen thanks everyone who contributed to the success of the 60th edition.

  33. Thanks to the partners of the 60th edition

    Sousse

    After the 60th edition, the association thanks everyone who made it a success: Minister of Cultural Affairs Hayet Guettat Guermazi, Minister of Tourism Mohamed Moez Belhassine, members of parliament, the security forces, Civil Protection, the Municipality of Sousse, the regional agriculture commission and the Société tunisienne d’acconage et de manutention.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

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  34. Highlights of the 60th edition (24 July 2023)

    Sousse

    The web radio of the Akouda youth centre publishes video highlights of the carnival of Monday 24 July 2023.

  35. Festival photos by Moez Ben Ali

    Sousse

    Photographer Moez Ben Ali presents a series of photos of the 60th edition.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

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  36. The emblematic float on display at the Mall of Sousse

    Mall of Sousse

    As part of the 60th edition, the carnival’s emblematic float is displayed outside the Mall of Sousse.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

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  37. A new look for “I LOVE SOUSSE”

    Sousse

    The “I LOVE SOUSSE” sculpture unveils its new look.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

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  38. Fireworks at Port El Kantaoui

    Port El Kantaoui

    A video shows the fireworks set off by the association at Port El Kantaoui.

  39. Video: 60th edition of the Aoussou Carnival

    Sousse

    A video looks back on the 60th edition of the Aoussou Carnival.

  40. Tribute to the contributors to the 60th edition (16 November 2023)

    Governorate headquarters, Sousse

    At the governorate headquarters, Governor Nabil Ferjani chairs the ceremony honouring the contributors to the 60th edition, who receive certificates.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page · Walid Ben Hassen

    View the post ↗
The 60th edition page
61stedition
CHAPTER · 2024

The 61st edition, in 2024

“Aoussou, Sea and Peace”

DATES14 to 27 July 2024
VENUESBoujaafar corniche · Habib Bourguiba Avenue · Twin Cities Square · Borj Khadija beach · Port El Kantaoui

The 61st edition opened with a day of beach games and reached its climax on Saturday 27 July with the grand parade. Setting off from Dar Echabab, the procession made its way to Habib Bourguiba Avenue and the Boujaafar corniche: fifteen symbolic floats designed by Tunisian artists, the Sousse majorettes and a children’s tableau dedicated to Gaza, in the presence of the ministers Mohamed Moez Belhassine and Moncef Boukthir and the governor, Nabil Ferjani.

The rapper Balti gave a free concert on Twin Cities Square, and the Croatian troupe KUD Nova Zora entertained the crowds at Port El Kantaoui.

Highlights

  1. Balti concert on Twin Cities Square.
  2. Republic Day fireworks on Borj Khadija beach.
  3. Musical evening and fireworks at Port El Kantaoui.
  4. Grand parade from Dar Echabab to the Boujaafar corniche.

Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

The 2024 thread · 43 events

  1. Announcement of the “Aladdin” show

    Sousse Municipal Theatre

    The association announces its family circus show on 4 February 2024 at 14:00 at the Sousse Municipal Theatre; tickets, at 20 dinars, are on sale at the theatre and on teskerti.tn.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

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  2. Walid Ben Hassen on Jawhara FM

    Jawhara FM

    On Jawhara FM, Walid Ben Hassen presents the Paparôni Circus’s Aladdin show, following the success of the 60th edition.

  3. “Aladdin and the Wonderful Lamp” show

    Sousse Municipal Theatre

    The association stages the Paparôni Circus’s “Aladdin” circus show at the Sousse Municipal Theatre, with competitions hosted by Aymen Tarchoun; it then thanks its volunteers, friends and advertisers.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

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  4. Aoussou at the Cologne Carnival

    Cologne (Germany)

    To prepare the 61st edition, the association attends the Cologne Carnival in Germany.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

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  5. The “I Love Sousse” sculpture installed in Boujaafar

    Boujaafar beach, Sousse

    The “I Love Sousse” sculpture, presented during the 60th edition, is installed on the Boujaafar corniche.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

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  6. Registration to build the floats

    Sousse

    The association invites artists to register to build the carnival floats.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

  7. First preparatory meeting for the 61st edition (18 April 2024)

    Sousse Governorate

    Governor Nabil Ferjani chairs the first preparatory meeting for the 61st edition, under the slogan “I Love Sousse”.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

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  8. Official poster of the 61st edition (14–27 July 2024)

    Sousse

    The official poster of the 61st edition, “Aoussou, Sea and Peace”, is unveiled together with a call for volunteers.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

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  9. Inauguration of the “I LOVE SOUSSE” sculpture (27 April 2024)

    Twin Cities Square, Sousse

    The public is invited to the inauguration of the “I Love Sousse” sculpture on 27 April 2024 at Twin Cities Square, with the majorettes performing; Walid Ben Hassen passes on the invitation in a video.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

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  10. Residents invited to contribute to the carnival

    Sousse

    The committee brings residents and volunteers together to involve them in preparing the carnival, in line with international carnival standards.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

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  11. Bid to list Aoussou as intangible heritage

    Dar Badiaa, Sousse

    The association thanks Omar Belhouane and Dar Badiaa for their initiative to have the Aoussou Carnival listed as intangible cultural heritage.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page · Walid Ben Hassen

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  12. Announcement: beach games day (14 July)

    Boujaafar corniche, Sousse

    The beach games day is announced for 14 July.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

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  13. D-20: the team at work

    Carnival workshop, Sousse

    Twenty days before the carnival of 27 July, the association thanks the committee and the artistic team at work in the workshop.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

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  14. Press conference for the 61st edition

    Sousse

    The press conference presents the 61st edition, “Aoussou, Sea and Peace”, scheduled from 14 to 27 July.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

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  15. The entertainment day in pictures

    Boujaafar beach, Sousse

    These photos, including those by the Hayen Daghrir team, capture the atmosphere of the 61st edition’s beach games day.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

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  16. 61st edition programme

    Sousse

    The programme poster for the 61st edition is unveiled.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

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  17. Announcement: free Balti concert (23 July)

    Twin Cities Square, Boujaafar beach, Sousse

    Balti will give a free concert on Tuesday 23 July at Twin Cities Square, near Boujaafar beach.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

  18. Video: Balti in concert on 23 July

    Sousse

    A short video announces Balti’s concert on 23 July.

  19. Announcement: carnival on Saturday 27 July 2024

    Sousse

    The 61st edition carnival is announced for Saturday 27 July 2024.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  20. Performances by a foreign folk troupe (20 July 2024)

    Sousse

    To liven up the city, a foreign folk troupe gives two back-to-back performances on 20 July, as part of the 61st edition.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

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  21. Video: welcome to the 61st edition

    Sousse

    A short video welcomes the audience to the 61st edition, “Aoussou, Sea and Peace”.

  22. Announcement: Republic Day fireworks display

    Sousse

    The public is invited to the Republic Day fireworks display, organised as part of the 61st edition.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

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  23. Entertainment show at Port El Kantaoui

    Port El Kantaoui

    An entertainment show is held at Port El Kantaoui with Mounir Bouraoui, president of the Sousse Majorettes and son of the founder Abdelhafidh Bouraoui.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

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  24. Photos of Balti’s concert (23 July 2024)

    Twin Cities Square, Sousse

    These photos of Balti’s concert, held on 23 July at Twin Cities Square, show the artist and his audience.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  25. The crowd at Balti’s concert

    Twin Cities Square, Sousse

    Tens of thousands of spectators attend Balti’s concert, according to the “Sousse Culturelle” report shared by the page.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

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  26. Video of Balti’s concert (23 July 2024)

    Twin Cities Square, Sousse

    A video looks back on Balti’s concert of 23 July at Twin Cities Square.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

  27. Photos of the 2024 carnival

    Sousse

    The page publishes a series of photos of the 61st edition.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  28. Photos of the 61st edition parade

    Streets of Sousse

    These photos of the 61st edition carnival, “Aoussou, Sea and Peace”, including those by photojournalist Chawki Hammadi, show the procession in the streets of Sousse.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  29. The Aoussou Carnival attracts Algerian media

    Sousse

    The Aoussou Carnival 2024 also attracts Algerian media, whose report is shared by the association’s president.

  30. The Essaf troupe from Nabeul at the Aoussou Carnival

    Sousse

    The Essaf troupe from Nabeul takes part in the 2024 carnival.

    Photos: Walid Ben Hassen

    View the post ↗

  31. Video: Aoussou, Sea and Peace

    Sousse

    A video of the 61st edition presents the carnival as a “national heritage”.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

  32. Thanks to the security forces

    Sousse

    President Walid Ben Hassen, the 61st edition’s artistic director Jalel Eddine Douma and Mounir Bouraoui thank the police for the success of the edition.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  33. The 61st edition parade in pictures

    Streets of Sousse

    An album traces the 61st edition parade, “Aoussou, Sea and Peace”.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  34. Video: Balti’s concert through the eyes of Anis Mabrouki

    Sousse

    A video by Anis Mabrouki looks back on Balti’s concert during the 61st edition, “Aoussou, Sea and Peace”.

  35. Jawhara FM honours the executive committee

    Jawhara FM

    Jawhara FM’s “Voyage voyage” programme honours the executive committee for its contribution to tourism and culture.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  36. Four floats at the Sidi Bouzaabia festival

    Zaouiet Sousse

    Four of the association’s floats, including the Ibn Khaldoun float by sculptor Ahmed Tlili, parade at the Sidi Bouzaabia festival.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  37. Aoussou 2024: Sousse delights its visitors

    Sousse

    A video shows how Sousse delighted its visitors during the Aoussou Carnival 2024.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

  38. Aoussou joins the Silk Road network (Shanghai)

    Shanghai (China)

    Invited to the 23rd Shanghai International Arts Festival, the association’s president brings the Aoussou Carnival into the Silk Road festival network.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  39. Taking part in the 26th Pomegranate Festival

    Kalâa Seghira

    The association takes part in the carnival of the 26th Pomegranate Festival in Kalâa Seghira.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  40. Tribute for the return of the Pomegranate Festival

    Kalâa Seghira

    The association and the Sousse majorettes are honoured for their contribution to the return of the Pomegranate Festival.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  41. Invitation: workshop and olive tree planting

    Port El Kantaoui

    The association invites the public to a props workshop and an olive tree planting on 10 November 2024 at Port El Kantaoui, for Tree Day.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  42. Tree Day at El Kantaoui golf course

    El Kantaoui golf course

    Under the patronage of the Governor of Sousse, the association takes part in National Tree Day at El Kantaoui golf course, with a props workshop.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  43. “Cuisine of Yesteryear, Traditional Crafts” event

    Port El Kantaoui, Hammam Sousse

    The association invites the public to the “Cuisine of Yesteryear, Traditional Crafts” event, devoted to culinary and craft heritage, on Saturday 21 December 2024 at the El Kantaoui marina.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗
The 61st edition page
62ndedition
CHAPTER · 2025

The 62nd edition, in 2025

“Aoussou, Sea and Arts”

DATESJuly 2025
VENUESBoujaafar beach · Twin Cities Square · Borj Khadija · Port El Kantaoui marina

The 62nd edition opened on Boujaafar beach with a day of games: sandcastles, kites, a foam party and water games. It also featured the Miss Aoussou contest and a carnival costume design competition.

On 25 July, nearly a tonne of fireworks imported from France set the sky ablaze, from Borj Khadija to Boujaafar. On Sunday 27 July, the grand parade brought together floats, Tunisian scouts, the Jelali troupe’s hadhra and its horsemen, and the Five Stars troupe from Douz with its camels. The artistic team was led by Jalel Douma.

Highlights

  1. Raouf Maher concert on Twin Cities Square, which went ahead despite the rain.
  2. Republic Day fireworks.
  3. Evening of foreign troupes at the Port El Kantaoui marina.
  4. Grand parade, from 18:00.

Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

The 2025 thread · 52 events

  1. Thanks to a sponsor of the 61st edition

    Sousse

    The association thanks the Al Ons restaurant for its support of the 61st edition.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  2. Registration to build the floats

    Sousse

    The association invites artists to register to build the carnival floats.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  3. Announcement: Republic Day and the 62nd edition (14–27 July)

    Sousse

    The association announces that the 62nd edition will be held from 14 to 27 July, around Republic Day.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  4. Baba Aoussou celebrates the centenary of Étoile Sportive du Sahel

    Sousse

    Baba Aoussou, the carnival’s emblematic character, takes part in the centenary celebrations of Étoile Sportive du Sahel.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  5. Cleaning the “I Sousse” sculpture

    Sousse

    The association’s volunteers clean the “I Sousse” sculpture ahead of the Étoile Sportive du Sahel centenary celebrations.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  6. Preparatory meeting for the 62nd edition with the Minister of Tourism

    Sousse

    The Minister of Tourism and the Governor of Sousse chair a preparatory meeting for the 62nd edition.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  7. Taking part in the Brunswick Night of Cultures

    Braunschweig (Germany)

    On 14 June, the association takes part in the Brunswick Night of Cultures to promote the 62nd edition.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  8. Reception of the international delegations in Brunswick

    Braunschweig (Germany)

    The international delegations are received at Brunswick City Hall.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  9. Carnival costume design competition 2025

    Sousse

    A carnival costume design competition, with prize money of 1 000 dinars, is launched; the selected designs will be made.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

  10. Nationwide poster campaign for the 62nd edition

    Tunisia

    The poster for the 27 July carnival is put up in every governorate, and trips are organised from all over the country.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  11. Announcement: “Sea and Arts” carnival on 27 July 2025

    Sousse

    Walid Ben Hassen invites everyone who loves Sousse to the 62nd edition carnival, “Sea and Arts”, on 27 July 2025.

    Photos: Walid Ben Hassen

    View the post ↗

  12. Miss Aoussou Carnival competition 2025

    Sousse

    Applications are open for the Miss Carnival competition, on the theme “Aoussou, Sea and Arts”.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

  13. Announcement: carnival on 27 July

    Sousse

    The 62nd edition carnival is announced for 27 July.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  14. Announcement: beach games day (13 July 2025)

    Boujaafar beach, Sousse

    The programme for the beach games day on 13 July, organised as part of the 62nd edition, is unveiled.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  15. Working session with the Governor of Sousse

    Sousse

    A working session with the Governor of Sousse reviews the organisation of the festival and the difficulties encountered.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  16. Filming of the programme “El Aziza Bladi”

    Marriott Hotel, Sousse

    At the Marriott Hotel, Hatem Belhouch films a segment for the programme “El Aziza Bladi” on the final preparations for the festival.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  17. 62nd edition programme

    Sousse

    The programme poster for the 62nd edition, “Aoussou, Sea and Arts”, is unveiled.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  18. The Governor of Sousse visits the entertainment day

    Boujaafar beach, Sousse

    The Governor of Sousse kicks off the entertainment day on Boujaafar beach.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  19. Kites over Boujaafar

    Boujaafar beach, Sousse

    The Tunisian Kite Association runs the kite-flying part of the day.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  20. Foam party

    Boujaafar beach, Sousse

    The Mousse Party delights those taking part in the entertainment day.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  21. Watermelons and melons from the association’s organic farm

    Boujaafar beach, Sousse

    Fresh watermelons and melons from the association’s organic farm are handed out on the beach.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  22. Sandcastle competition

    Boujaafar beach, Sousse

    Young and old compete in imagination at the sandcastle and sand sculpture competition.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  23. Beach games and water games

    Boujaafar beach, Sousse

    Competitions and water games set the pace of the entertainment day on Boujaafar beach.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  24. Opening of the entertainment day (13 July 2025)

    Boujaafar beach, Sousse

    The entertainment day of 13 July opens with the flag salute and the national anthem.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  25. Preparations for the beach games day

    Boujaafar beach, Sousse

    The association thanks the volunteers, technical staff and the municipality who prepared the beach games day.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  26. Press conference for the 62nd edition (13 July 2025)

    Marriott Hotel, Sousse

    Held on 13 July at the Marriott Hotel in Sousse, the press conference presents the preparations for the 62nd edition, “Aoussou, Sea and Arts”.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  27. Programme for the carnival of 27 July 2025

    Sousse

    The 62nd edition carnival takes place on Sunday 27 July 2025: join us from 18:00 for the shows, the parade troupes and the colours of the procession.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

  28. Announcement: 62nd edition fireworks display

    Sousse

    A fireworks display is announced in the sky over Sousse for the 62nd edition.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  29. Announcement: Raouf Maher concert (23 July 2025)

    Twin Cities Square, Sousse

    Raouf Maher is announced in concert on 23 July at 22:00 at Twin Cities Square, as part of the 62nd edition, “Aoussou, Sea and Arts”.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  30. Video: 62nd edition, “Aoussou, Sea and Arts”

    Boujaafar beach, Sousse

    A short video announces the carnival of 27 July, on the theme “Aoussou, Sea and Arts”.

  31. Press release: exceptional transport arrangements

    Sousse Governorate

    The organising committee announces exceptional transport arrangements to make getting around easier on 23, 25 and 27 July 2025.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  32. Raouf Maher’s concert in the rain

    Twin Cities Square, Sousse

    Despite the rain, Raouf Maher performs his 62nd edition concert for the audience at Twin Cities Square.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  33. Fireworks evening

    Sousse corniche

    The fireworks evening comes to a close on the Sousse corniche.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  34. Countdown to the 62nd edition (27 July 2025)

    Sousse

    On parade day, the Aoussou Carnival, billed as the “doyen of Arab and Mediterranean carnivals”, invites the public to join from 18:00.

    Photos: Walid Ben Hassen

    View the post ↗

  35. Unforgettable moments from the 62nd edition

    Sousse

    On the theme “Aoussou, Sea and Arts”, the 62nd edition gave Sousse an exceptional celebration.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  36. Highlights of the Aoussou Carnival

    Sousse

    These carnival highlights show the performances and an audience of all ages.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  37. Tribute to the artistic team of the 62nd edition

    Sousse

    The association thanks the artistic team of the 62nd edition, led by its artistic director, Jalel Eddine Douma.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  38. Smiles and joy in the crowd

    Sousse

    These photos capture the smiles and joy of the crowd in the streets and squares of Sousse.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  39. The Five Stars troupe from Douz

    Sousse

    The Douz folk arts troupe livens up the carnival with its racing camels, the burnous dance and the rhythms of the South.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  40. The Jelali troupe’s hadhra

    Sousse

    The Jelali troupe presents the Tunisian hadhra, accompanied by riders and Arabian horses.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  41. Tunisian scouts in the procession

    Sousse

    Tunisian scouts take part in the procession of the Aoussou International Carnival.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  42. The carnival’s VIP stand

    Sousse

    The VIP stand brings together the carnival’s officials and official guests.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  43. Welcoming the Croatian troupe KUD Gradići

    Sousse

    The association welcomes the Croatian troupe KUD Gradići for World Tourism Day, as part of its year-round programme of events in the city.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  44. World Tourism Day with the Croatian troupe

    Port El Kantaoui

    With the Croatian troupe KUD Gradići, the association takes part in World Tourism Day at Port El Kantaoui on 27 September.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  45. Twinning agreement with KUD Gradići (Croatia)

    Sousse

    The association signs a cultural exchange agreement with the Croatian association KUD Gradići.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  46. Republic Day video (62nd edition)

    Sousse

    A video looks back on the Republic Day celebrations during the 62nd edition.

  47. Announcement: Pomegranate Festival 2025

    Kalâa Seghira

    The carnival of the 27th Pomegranate Festival is announced for Sunday 2 November at 15:00, outside Kalâa Seghira town hall.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  48. Taking part in the 27th Pomegranate Festival

    Kalâa Seghira

    The association takes part in the carnival of the 27th Pomegranate Festival in Kalâa Seghira.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  49. Murals for the 63rd edition

    Sousse

    The association joins the governorate’s initiative with a mural by Mahmoud Khelifi announcing the 63rd edition in July 2026.

  50. The workshop’s year-round work

    Carnival workshop, Sousse

    All year round, the workshop’s artists continue their work in the service of culture in the region.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  51. Announcement of the Olive Festival carnival

    Kalâa Kebira

    The opening of the 44th Olive Festival, with a carnival organised in partnership with the Aoussou Carnival, is announced for Sunday 21 December at 10:00, outside Kalâa Kebira town hall.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  52. Taking part in the 44th Olive Festival

    Kalâa Kebira

    On 21 December, the association contributes to the opening of the 44th International Olive Festival in Kalâa Kebira, with the artist Mahmoud Khelifi.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗
The 62nd edition page
63rdedition
CHAPTER · 2026

The 63rd edition, in 2026

“Aoussou, Art and Heritage”

DATES12 to 26 July 2026
VENUESBoujaafar beach · Twin Cities Square · Habib Bourguiba Avenue · Port El Kantaoui

Prepared from the winter onwards — all the way to the Brunswick carnival in Germany, where 5,000 invitations were handed out — the 63rd edition celebrated Tunisian art and heritage. It opened on 12 July with the day of beach games, followed by the Star Aoussou evening, which brought together Balti and Mortadha Ftiti on Twin Cities Square.

On 24 July at 19:00, the grand parade of floats built in Sousse made its way along the corniche and Habib Bourguiba Avenue before thousands of visitors. Delegations from Poland, France, Libya, Algeria and Syria took part, including the Polish orchestra Orkiestra Dęta Świecie. On 25 July, 958 kg of fireworks lit up Boujaafar for Republic Day.

Highlights

  1. Press conference at the Sousse Marriott hotel.
  2. Opening: a day of beach games at Boujaafar.
  3. Star Aoussou evening with Balti and Mortadha Ftiti.
  4. Grand parade, at 19:00.
  5. Republic Day fireworks, at 22:30.
  6. Closing at Port El Kantaoui.

Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

The 2026 thread · 60 events

  1. The Aoussou Carnival’s agriculture float

    Sousse

    The float dedicated to agriculture, shown at several events, is given pride of place.

    Photos: Walid Ben Hassen

    View the post ↗

  2. Registration to build the floats for the 63rd edition

    Sousse

    The association invites artists to register to build the carnival floats for the 63rd edition, “Art and Heritage”.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  3. Preparing to take part in the Brunswick Carnival

    Braunschweig (Germany)

    Walid Ben Hassen and Mounir Bouraoui meet representatives of the Tunisian community in Brunswick to prepare for taking part in the carnival on 15 February.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  4. Announcement: “green gold” day

    Port El Kantaoui, Hammam Sousse

    On 31 January, from 9:00, the association is holding a day promoting Tunisian organic olive oil at El Kantaoui harbour; Mouldi Dhifallah, a member of the executive committee, calls on people to take part.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  5. Radio appearance by Walid Ben Hassen (Jawhara FM)

    Jawhara FM

    On Jawhara FM, the association’s president invites the public to the organic olive oil promotion day on 31 January.

  6. Walid Ben Hassen presents the olive oil day

    Port El Kantaoui, Hammam Sousse

    In a video, Walid Ben Hassen, president of the association, presents the organic olive oil promotion day on 31 January.

  7. Olive oil promotion day a success

    Port El Kantaoui, Hammam Sousse

    The Tunisian olive oil promotion day, held on the quayside at El Kantaoui harbour, is a great success.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  8. Anniversary of the birth of founder Abdelhafidh Bouraoui

    Sousse

    The association recalls the birth, on 6 February 1926, of Abdelhafidh Bouraoui, founder of the Aoussou Carnival.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  9. Call to Tunisians in Germany

    Germany

    The association invites Tunisians living in Germany to join it when it takes part in German carnivals, alongside Mohamed Ali Jelali’s international troupe.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  10. Taking part in the Brunswick International Carnival

    Braunschweig (Germany)

    With Mohamed Ali Jelali’s international troupe and the Brunswick Tunisian friendship association, the association takes part in the Brunswick Carnival to promote the 63rd edition, and 5 000 invitations are handed out to the public. Live on air, German television announces the date of 24 July and praises the Hadhra of Sousse; the delegation also meets German elected officials, including the mayors of Brunswick and Hanover.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  11. Repainting the “I Love Sousse” sculpture

    Boujaafar corniche, Sousse

    The association thanks those who took part in repainting the “I Love Sousse” sculpture, which it created, on the Boujaafar corniche.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  12. Meeting with the Minister of Tourism

    Tunis

    The executive committee meets the Minister of Tourism, Sofiene Tekaya, who undertakes to facilitate the organisation of the 63rd edition and to prepare the 2027 edition.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  13. Casting for the carnival

    Sousse

    The association launches a call for applications, for ages 10 to 60, for theatre, entertainment, dance and costume parades at the carnival.

  14. Meeting with the Boys’ Lycée alumni association

    Sousse

    The executive committee meets the alumni association of the Sousse Boys’ Lycée to prepare the celebration of the school’s centenary during the carnival of 24 July 2026.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  15. Work begins at the carnival workshop

    Carnival workshop, Sousse

    Thanks to the intervention of the Governor of Sousse, some of the raw materials are purchased and work at the carnival workshop can begin.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  16. Working session with the Governor of Sousse

    Sousse Governorate

    The Governor of Sousse, Sofiene Tanfouri, chairs a preparatory meeting for the 63rd edition with the regional and local authorities.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page · Walid Ben Hassen

    View the post ↗

  17. Meeting of the 63rd edition volunteers (5 July 2026)

    Youth Complex, Sousse

    The carnival volunteers meet to coordinate the 63rd edition in the Ezzitouna hall of the Sousse Youth Complex.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  18. Programme of the beach games day (12 July)

    Boujaafar beach, Sousse

    The 63rd edition will open on Sunday 12 July with a beach games day: sport for all, sandcastles, games and a Mousse Party.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

  19. Invitation to the 63rd edition press conference

    Sousse

    The media are invited to the press conference that will unveil the full programme of the 63rd edition.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  20. Press conference for the 63rd edition (11 July 2026)

    Sousse

    The press conference presents the programme of the 63rd edition, “Aoussou, Art and Heritage”, which gets under way the very next day with the beach games day in Boujaafar.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  21. Announcement: parade on 24 July at 19:00

    Boujaafar beach, Sousse

    The 63rd edition carnival parade, “Aoussou, Art and Heritage”, is announced for 24 July at 19:00.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page · Walid Ben Hassen

    View the post ↗

  22. Traditional games at the opening of the 63rd edition (12 July 2026)

    Boujaafar beach, Sousse

    Traditional Tunisian games liven up the opening of the 63rd edition on 12 July 2026 on Boujaafar beach.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  23. “Sport for All” opening session

    Boujaafar beach, Sousse

    A group “sport for all” session opens the beach games day.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  24. The beach games day volunteers

    Boujaafar beach, Sousse

    In photos, the page pays tribute to the young volunteers who organised the beach games day.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  25. Kites in the sky over Sousse

    Boujaafar beach, Sousse

    Kites colour the sky over Sousse during the 63rd edition’s beach games day.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  26. A break for organic watermelons and melons

    Boujaafar beach, Sousse

    Organic watermelons and melons are handed out to those taking part in the beach games day.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  27. Foam party

    Boujaafar beach, Sousse

    The beach games day Mousse Party brings together children and young people.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  28. Sandcastle competition

    Boujaafar beach, Sousse

    The sandcastle competition brings together children, young people and families, with seventeen entries.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  29. Star Aoussou 2026 with Balti and Mortadha Ftiti

    Twin Cities Square, Sousse

    The Star Aoussou 2026 evening is officially announced for Wednesday 22 July.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page · Walid Ben Hassen

    View the post ↗

  30. Video of the beach games day

    Boujaafar beach, Sousse

    A video traces the 63rd edition’s beach games day: sandcastles, traditional games and sport.

  31. Announcement: Star Aoussou 2026

    Twin Cities Square, Sousse

    The Star Aoussou 2026 evening, with Balti and Mortadha Ftiti, is announced for Wednesday 22 July at Twin Cities Square.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

  32. Announcement of the fireworks display on 25 July 2026

    Sousse

    The public is invited to the Republic Day fireworks display on Saturday 25 July 2026 at 22:30, as part of the 63rd edition.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  33. 63rd edition posters across the country

    Tunisia

    Posters for the 24 July carnival go up all over Tunisia; the association thanks the company Odv plus for its support.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  34. Arrival of the fireworks (958 kg)

    Port of Radès, then Sousse

    After customs clearance at the port of Radès, the carnival’s 958 kg consignment of fireworks is transported to Sousse.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  35. Thanks to the Arab States Broadcasting Union (ASBU)

    Sousse

    The committee thanks engineer Abderrahim Souleiman, CEO of the Arab States Broadcasting Union, for his support of the 63rd edition.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  36. Promotional campaign for the 63rd edition with “Akouda Temchi”

    Sousse and surrounding area

    From 18 to 21 July 2026, the “Akouda Temchi” team and volunteers run a promotional campaign for the 63rd edition in the neighbourhoods of Sousse.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  37. Promoting the carnival and Balti’s concert in Kairouan

    Kairouan

    The association thanks the volunteers who promoted the carnival and Balti’s concert, particularly in Kairouan.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

    View the post ↗

  38. Announcement: Aoussou Carnival on 24 July 2026 at 19:00

    Boujaafar corniche, Sousse

    The 63rd edition carnival is announced for 24 July 2026 at 19:00 on the Boujaafar corniche.

    Photos: Walid Ben Hassen

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  39. Handing out press badges for the 63rd edition

    Olga restaurant, near Twin Cities Square, Sousse

    Access badges for media accredited to the 63rd edition are handed out on 22 July 2026 from 18:00 at the Olga restaurant, near Twin Cities Square.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

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  40. Tribute to those who carried the carnival in the past

    Sousse

    Walid Ben Hassen pays tribute to the women and men who carried the carnival before him, including Hamed Zgati, Abdelhafidh Bouraoui and Hamed Zaghdan.

  41. Star Aoussou evening with Balti and Mortadha Ftiti

    Twin Cities Square, Sousse

    The Star Aoussou evening on 22 July draws a large crowd to Twin Cities Square, where the rapper Balti performs his best-known songs.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

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  42. Countdown to the 63rd edition at the workshop

    Carnival workshop, Sousse

    At the carnival workshop, preparations continue right up to parade day; the association thanks the artists, craftspeople and volunteers.

  43. Photos of the carnival on the Boujaafar corniche

    Boujaafar corniche, Sousse

    Photos of the parade on the Boujaafar corniche, published by Maghreb Plus, are shared by the association’s president.

    Photos: Walid Ben Hassen

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  44. The association celebrates Republic Day

    Sousse

    The association celebrates Republic Day in its own way, and fireworks light up the sky over Sousse.

  45. Republic Day fireworks

    Boujaafar beach, Sousse

    A video looks back on the fireworks display that celebrated Republic Day as part of the 63rd edition.

  46. Moments from the 63rd edition

    Sousse

    These photos of the 63rd edition show art meeting Tunisian heritage, in front of thousands of visitors.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

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  47. Video of the 63rd edition and an appeal for 2027

    Sousse

    The video of the 63rd edition, “Art and Heritage”, is published with an appeal to share it widely ahead of the 64th edition in 2027, the year Tunis will be the Arab Capital of Tourism.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

  48. Highlights of the 63rd edition, “Art and Heritage”

    Streets of Sousse

    The page brings together the finest moments of the 63rd edition, on the theme “Aoussou, Art and Heritage”, enjoyed in the streets of Sousse by a large crowd.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

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  49. Thanks after the success of the 63rd edition

    Sousse

    The association thanks the organisers, artists, craftspeople, volunteers, partners and media who contributed to the success of the 63rd edition.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

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  50. Work from the carnival workshop

    Carnival workshop, Sousse

    These photos show the work of the carnival workshop: despite limited resources, the artists’ commitment made all the difference.

    Photos: Walid Ben Hassen

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  51. Tribute to the Polish troupe

    Sousse

    The executive committee pays tribute to the Polish troupe that took part in the 63rd edition; the celebration held in its honour at Port El Kantaoui is also filmed by Zoom culture.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

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  52. Thanks to the Polish band of the 63rd edition

    Sousse

    A video thanks the Polish brass band Orkiestra Dęta Świecie for taking part in the 63rd edition, together with the Polish Embassy in Tunis.

  53. Taking part in the Sidi Bouzaabia carnival 2026

    Zaouiet Sousse

    True to its openness to the region, the association takes part in the Sidi Bouzaabia carnival in Zaouiet Sousse.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

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  54. The “I Sousse” sculpture created by the association

    Sousse

    The “I Sousse” sculpture, created by the Aoussou Parade Association for visitors’ photos, is given pride of place; Walid Ben Hassen thanks the artist Bassem Ben Zineb.

    Photos: Walid Ben Hassen

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  55. Video: Anis Mabrouki and the Aoussou 2026 crowd

    Sousse

    A video shows Anis Mabrouki’s performance, cheered by the Sousse crowd during Aoussou 2026.

  56. Video: Aoussou 2026 in Sousse

    Sousse

    The page publishes a recap video of the Aoussou Carnival 2026.

  57. Tribute to founder Abdelhafidh Bouraoui

    Sousse

    The association honours the memory of Abdelhafidh Bouraoui, founder of the Aoussou Carnival, who died on 11 September 2008. Born on 6 February 1926 in Sousse, he was one of the great figures of the city’s cultural life.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page

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  58. Preparations at the carnival workshop for the Pomegranate Festival

    Carnival workshop, Sousse

    At the carnival workshop, artists Mahmoud Khelifi and Hamdi Sassi prepare the association’s participation in the Pomegranate Festival carnival in Kalâa Seghira.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page · Walid Ben Hassen

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  59. Announcement of the Kalâa Seghira carnival (1 November 2026)

    Kalâa Seghira

    The Kalâa Seghira carnival is announced for Sunday 1 November 2026, on the town’s main street.

    Photos: Walid Ben Hassen

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  60. Taking part in the Pomegranate Festival carnival (28th edition)

    Kalâa Seghira

    The Aoussou Parade Association takes part with its tableaux and floats in the carnival of the 28th Pomegranate Festival in Kalâa Seghira.

    Photos: official Aoussou Carnival page · Walid Ben Hassen

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