Napoli World Festival is the international world music showcase and meeting. It takes place over three days in Naples. The festival runs on 27, 28 and 29 November 2025. It is organised by Italian World Beat and financially supported by the City of Naples. It’s an open Call for musicians and performers from all over the world. The artists application is open until July 15 2025.
The Artistic Director is Maestro Enzo Avitabile. The main team includes Fabio Scopino and Davide Mastropaolo.
What to Expect
Napoli World is a mix of:
- Showcases
- Conferences
- Workshops
- Meetings
There are 16 showcases. These take place in four venues: Teatro Nuovo, Auditorium Novecento, Kestè, and Chiesa delle Scalze. All events are free but depend on space .
Napoli World is more than music. It is a professional meeting. Artists can meet over 30 international artistic directors and delegates. Delegates come from over 17 countries, including France, USA, Canada, South Korea, Morocco, and many more. This festival helps build international networks. It supports career growth and cultural exchange .
Key Points for Applicants
- The call is open to artists working in world, folk, or ethnic music .
- Emerging local artists can apply via a specific call. Selected acts gain a slot in the programme .
Festival Format & Activities
During three days, expect:
- 16 showcase concerts in four historic venues
- 3 panel discussions, 1 speed‑meeting, 1 workshop
- 2 DJ sets during evening hours
- Day‑long events from morning to late night.
In previous editions, confirmed artists included Balkansambel (Slovakia), Faraualla, Maluf System, Mari Kalkun, Saz (India), Xiido (South Korea), Julia Kozakova, Nubras Ensemble, PS5, Afro Dream, Daniele Sepe & Galactic Syndicate, Big Dave Munkola, and more.
Partnerships and European Reach
Napoli World is part of UPBEAT, Europe’s first showcase platform for world music. It is connected with major international festivals like WOMEX, Babel Music Expo, VISA for Music, Seoul Music Week, and Toronto’s Small World Music. This gives artists a broader stage and more exposure.
How to Apply
Visit the MusicConnect‑Italy website. Find the “Showcase” or “Call for Artists” page. Complete the form and submit. Applications deadline is July 15, 2025.
It’s free for both artists and the public. The historic venues of Naples offer charm. The festival mixes culture, music, and professional growth. If you create world or folk music—this is the moment to apply. Join Napoli World and share your art with the world.