Womex 2024 Concludes in Gran Canaria; Tenerife Named 2027 Host

The 32nd Worldwide Music Expo (Womex) recently wrapped up in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, marking a major milestone for the Canary Islands’ role in the global cultural sector. Held from October 21 to 25, the event cemented the islands' reputation as a key creative and logistical hub for the international music industry. Its success was so significant that Tenerife has already been confirmed to host the 2027 edition.

Centered at the Alfredo Kraus Auditorium and the Plaza de la Música, the event’s impact was clear. It drew 2,442 delegates from 115 countries, who connected across 194 stands featuring 548 exhibiting companies. The heart of the expo—the artistic program—showcased 221 musicians representing 45 different nationalities.

This year’s edition also made a concerted effort to engage the public. More than 12,000 people attended free outdoor concerts, successfully bridging the gap between industry professionals and local music fans. This public outreach was paired with a busy professional schedule, including 61 showcases, 16 conferences, networking sessions, mentorship programs, and a film series featuring 86 international speakers.

The event’s technical infrastructure was equally impressive, facilitating 30 radio sessions, nearly half of which were streamed live. Organizers credited the expertise of local teams for the event’s smooth operation, a factor that convinced Womex management to continue their partnership with the archipelago. This success proves the Canary Islands can effectively host large-scale global events and establishes a clear path for the region to remain a fixture on the international trade fair circuit.