AMAZIGH NEW YEAR ★ SYPHAX BAND & DJ DOUNIA

Adjustment of the planned programme due to the Africa Cup Final!

Since Morocco and Senegal are facing each other in the final of the Africa Cup of Nations, we have – after careful consideration and at the request of many – decided to slightly adjust our programme for this special evening. This way, we can give everyone the opportunity to fully enjoy both the music and this sporting highlight.

On January 18, we celebrate Yennayer, the Amazigh New Year, at De Centrale together with members of the Amazigh community from Ghent and the surrounding area.

This centuries-old festival marks the transition from Amazigh year 2975 to 2976 and symbolizes cultural pride and unity. Expect a day full of music, dance, poetry, and gastronomy, where tradition meets modern creativity.

Program (update!)

4:00 pm · Amazigh Market
5:00 pm · Poetry
6:00 pm · Amazigh Cuisine
7:00 pm · Syphax Band
8:00 pm · 1st half Morocco – Senegal
8:45 pm · Break with musical interlude (Syphax)
9:00 pm · 2nd half Morocco – Senegal
9:45 pm · End of match with musical finale (*)
11:30 pm · The End

(*) subject to possible extra time and penalty shoot-outs

Syphax Band

Syphax Band – formerly known as Hidden History – was formed in Al Hoceima (Morocco) by a group of young, talented students passionate about music. Their sound is a unique blend of rock, fusion, and traditional Rif rhythms, bridging modernity and heritage.

The band has won several music competitions, including the prestigious Tremplin at the L’Boulevard Festival in Casablanca (2017). Today, the core members are active in Europe, determined to spread their music worldwide. Expect captivating rhythms, touching melodies, and a style that breaks boundaries.

Line-up: Tarik Farih (vocals & flute), Saadiddine (guitar), Sebastien Ceroni (violin), Brice Ndjana (bass), Hadrien Pierson (drums), and Amine Kanzi (percussion).

DJ Dounia

DJ Dounia delivers a spectacular finale to the Yennayer celebration. With her mix of Amazigh and Maghreb sounds, she blends tradition with modern beats, ushering in the new year with energy, dance, and an unforgettable vibe.

Of Algerian origin, DJ Dounia is known for her versatility and sense of atmosphere. She moves effortlessly between styles: from Raï to Chaoui, from Moroccan to Tunisian sounds, and even from Debke to Reggada.

What is Yennayer?

About two weeks after “our” New Year, the Imazighen – the indigenous people of North Africa – celebrate their own New Year: Yennayer. According to this calendar, it marks the transition from year 2975 to 2976.

The Amazigh calendar begins in 950 BCE, the year Pharaoh Shoshenq I (of Libyan origin) ascended the throne of Egypt. This is the starting point of their historical calendar.

The word Amazigh means “free people” and reflects independence and cultural pride. Yennayer is one of the oldest New Year traditions in the world, with roots nearly 3,000 years old.

The name Yennayer comes from two Amazigh words: yan (one) and ayyur (month), meaning “first month.” On this day, people wish each other prosperity and long life. While Yennayer was once a modest rural celebration, today it is a recognized symbol of Amazigh identity.

Thanks to Al Minara, Hassan El Houari, Ourdia Tablout, Ahmed Moustaïd and many others.