Festive Morocco: Celebrations and Traditions

Eid al-Adha

Eid al-Adha, or the Feast of Sacrifice, is one of the most important religious festivals in Morocco and the Muslim world. It commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son Ismail (Ishmael) as an act of obedience to God. God intervened and provided a ram instead of Ismail, and Muslims celebrate this event by slaughtering an animal (usually a sheep, goat, or cow) and sharing the meat with family, friends, and the poor.

Eid al-Adha is celebrated on the 10th day of the last month of the Islamic calendar, which varies according to the lunar cycle. It usually falls in July or August in the Gregorian calendar. On this day, Muslims dress in their best clothes, attend a special prayer at the mosque, and exchange greetings and gifts. The streets are filled with the sound of bleating animals and the smell of grilled meat. The festival lasts for four days, during which people visit their relatives and neighbors, enjoy festive meals, and perform charitable acts.

Fantasia

Fantasia, or Tbourida, is a traditional equestrian show that dates back to the 15th century. It showcases the skills and bravery of Moroccan horsemen (and women) who charge at full speed on their horses while firing their rifles in unison. The spectacle is accompanied by drums, trumpets, and chants that create a thrilling atmosphere. Fantasia is performed at various occasions, such as weddings, religious festivals, national holidays, and cultural events.

One of the most famous events that feature Fantasia is the Moussem of Moulay Idriss Zerhoun, which takes place every September in the town of Moulay Idriss near Meknes. This event honors Moulay Idriss I, the founder of Morocco’s first Islamic dynasty and the patron saint of Fez. Thousands of pilgrims flock to his mausoleum to pay their respects and seek his blessings. The highlight of the event is the Fantasia show that involves hundreds of horsemen from different tribes who compete for prizes and glory.

Kalaat Mgouna Rose Festival

Morocco is not only known for its desert landscapes, but also for its lush valleys and oases. One of these is the Dades Valley, also known as the Valley of the Roses for its fragrant rose fields. Every May, the harvest is celebrated in the oasis town of Kalaat Mgouna, which is home to a large rose water distillery plant. The three-day festival starts on a Friday, attracts around 20,000 people and includes rose parades and stalls selling all kinds of rose products. Entertainment takes the form of traditional song and dance as well as the celebrated Miss Roses beauty pageant.

The rose festival is a great opportunity to discover the beauty and culture of this region, which is also famous for its kasbahs (fortified villages), gorges (narrow canyons), and Berber villages. You can also enjoy hiking, biking, or camel riding in the stunning scenery.

Fez Festival of World Sacred Music

The Fez Festival of World Sacred Music is one of the most prestigious cultural events in Morocco and the world. It was founded in 1994 as a response to the first Gulf War, with the aim of promoting dialogue and harmony among different religions and cultures through music. The festival lasts for nine days and comprises a program of stunning open-air concerts. You never know what you might see, from Iranian whirling dervishes to mystics, Sufi chanters, and dancers from all over the world. Venues include the beautiful Jnan Sbil Gardens and Bab al Makina, the parade ground located in front of the Royal Palace.

The festival also features free concerts in public squares, art exhibitions, film screenings, workshops, lectures, and guided tours of Fez’s medina (old city), which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The medina is one of the largest and oldest in the world, with over 9,000 alleys, hundreds of mosques, madrasas (Islamic schools), hammams (bathhouses), souks (markets), and monuments. It is a treasure trove of history, architecture, and culture that will enchant you.

Essaouira Gnawa and World Music Festival

Essaouira is a charming coastal town that has a long history of multiculturalism and artistic expression. It was once a major port and trading hub that attracted merchants, travelers, and artists from Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. It is also the birthplace of Gnawa music, a mystical and rhythmic genre that originated from the descendants of African slaves who were brought to Morocco. Gnawa music combines elements of Islamic Sufism, Berber folk music, and sub-Saharan African traditions. It is performed by groups of musicians called maalems (masters) and their disciples, who play instruments such as the guembri (a three-stringed lute), the krakebs (metal castanets), and the tbel (a large drum).

The Essaouira Gnawa and World Music Festival celebrates this unique musical heritage every June, attracting thousands of visitors and artists from around the world. The festival features concerts by Gnawa maalems and international stars who collaborate and fuse their styles. You can also enjoy street performances, art exhibitions, workshops, and cultural activities. Essaouira is also known for its beautiful beaches, where you can relax, surf, or kite-surf.

Conclusion

Morocco is a country that offers a variety of festivals and events that reflect its rich and diverse culture. Whether you are interested in religion, art, music, history, or nature, you will find something that suits your taste and curiosity. By attending these festivals, you will not only have fun and entertainment, but also learn more about the Moroccan people and their traditions. You will also have the chance to explore some of the most beautiful and fascinating places in Morocco. So don’t hesitate to plan your trip around one of these festivals and experience the festive side of Morocco.