Morocco is known for its many exciting festivals that happen all year round. From religious events like Eid al Adha and Ramadan to lively music and film festivals, there’s always something happening. In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at these festivals, including colorful celebrations of nature like the Rose Festival and the Kalaat Mgouna Rose Festival, music festivals that bring people together, and famous film festivals like the Festival International du Film de Marrakech.
Each festival shows a different part of Moroccan culture and traditions.
What are the religious festivals of Morocco?
Eid al Adha
Eid al Adha (عيد الأضحى) is a very important festival in Morocco where families come together to celebrate. It’s known as the “Festival of Sacrifice” and is about remembering a story from Islamic tradition where Ibrahim was willing to sacrifice his son for God.
On this day, Moroccans usually sacrifice an animal like a sheep and share the meat with family, friends, and people who need help. The morning starts with special prayers, and then the rest of the day is filled with eating delicious food and enjoying time with loved ones. People also dress up in nice clothes and give to the poor, making it a time of kindness and celebration.
![Morocco Eid al Adha](https://argancharm.com/wp-content/uploads/Morocco-Eid-al-Adha-1024x744.webp)
Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr
Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr are two significant and deeply spiritual events in the Islamic calendar, and they hold a special place in Moroccan culture.
Ramadan is a month of fasting, reflection, and prayer for Muslims. It commemorates the month in which the Quran was revealed to Prophet Muhammad. Here’s how it’s observed in Morocco:
- Fasting: From dawn until sunset, Muslims fast, refraining from eating, drinking, smoking, and marital relations. The fast is broken with the meal known as Iftar, often starting with dates and milk, followed by a rich spread of Moroccan dishes.
![Morocco ramadan fasting iftar](https://argancharm.com/wp-content/uploads/Morocco-ramadan-fasting-iftar.webp)
- Prayers and Reflection: The month is a time for increased prayer and reading of the Quran. Taraweeh, special nightly prayers, are performed in mosques.
- Community and Family: Ramadan is also a time for strengthening community ties and family bonds. People often gather with family and friends to break their fast together.
- Charity: Acts of charity are highly emphasized during Ramadan. Giving to those in need is seen as especially rewarding.
Eid al-Fitr (عيد الفطر) marks the end of Ramadan and is a celebration of the completion of this month of fasting and worship. Here’s what happens during Eid al-Fitr in Morocco:
- End of Fasting: Eid al-Fitr begins with the sighting of the new moon, marking the end of Ramadan and the beginning of the month of Shawwal.
- Special Prayers: The day starts with special Eid prayers held in large congregations. These prayers are usually performed in mosques or large open areas.
![Morocco Eid al-Fitr (عيد الفطر)](https://argancharm.com/wp-content/uploads/Morocco-Eid-al-Fitr-%D8%B9%D9%8A%D8%AF-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%81%D8%B7%D8%B1-.webp)
- Gifts and New Clothes: It’s customary to wear new clothes. Children often receive gifts or money from family members.
![moroccan eid al-fitr clothes](https://argancharm.com/wp-content/uploads/moroccan-eid-al-fitr-clothes.webp)
- Charity (Zakat al-Fitr زكاة الفطر) : Before the Eid prayers, Muslims give a specific type of charity known as Zakat al-Fitr زكاة الفطر. This is meant to purify those who fast from any indecent act or speech and to help the poor and needy.
Eid el Mawlid en-Nabaoui
Eid el Mawlid en-Nabaoui عید مَولِد النبوي, also known as Mawlid al-Nabi , is the celebration of the birth of the Prophet Muhammad, a significant event in the Islamic calendar, particularly revered in Morocco and other Muslim-majority countries
the Eid is celebrated on the 12th day of the Islamic month of رَبِيع ٱلْأَوَّل. Since the Islamic calendar is lunar, the date varies each year on the Gregorian calendar.
Here’s what usually happens:
- Prayers and Stories: People go to mosques for special prayers and to hear stories about the Prophet’s life.
- Decorations and Joy: Homes and mosques are decorated, and there’s a happy feeling everywhere.
- Sharing Food: Families cook special Moroccan dishes and sweets, and they share these with friends and even give some to people who need help.
- Helping Others: It’s important on this day to do kind things for others, like giving to charity.
- A Night of Prayer: The night before the birthday, some people stay up to pray and read the Quran as a sign of respect.
What are the movie and media Festivals of Morocco?
Festival International du Film de Marrakech
The Festival International du Film de Marrakech, held in December each year, is a big film event in Morocco. It’s like a big party for movies where people from all over the world come to watch and show films
![Morocco Festival International du Film de Marrakech](https://argancharm.com/wp-content/uploads/Morocco-Festival-International-du-Film-de-Marrakech.webp)
Mediterranean Film Festival
The Mediterranean Film Festival in Tetouan, held every March, is a special event for movie fans. It’s all about celebrating movies that come from countries around the Mediterranean Sea.
National Film Festival (Tangier, February)
The National Film Festival in Tangier, held every February, is an important event in Morocco’s film industry. It focuses on celebrating and promoting Moroccan cinema.
What are the cultural Festivals of Morocco?
Marrakech du Rire
Marrakech du Rire is a renowned comedy festival held annually in Marrakech, Morocco. It’s become one of the most significant events in the world of humor and entertainment, attracting comedians and audiences from around the globe
Marrakech du Rire is held in various venues across Marrakech, Morocco. These can include theaters, open-air stages, and other event spaces within the city.
the festival typically takes place over several days, often in the summer months, the next edition will be held in 2024, the producers haven’t yet communicated the date of the events.
![Morocco Marrakech du Rire](https://argancharm.com/wp-content/uploads/Morocco-Marrakech-du-Rire.webp)
Marrakesh Popular Arts Festival
The Marrakesh Popular Arts Festival is a vibrant celebration of Moroccan culture and arts. Held in the beautiful city of Marrakesh, this festival is known for showcasing a wide range of traditional Moroccan music, dance, and art. It’s a great way for visitors to experience the rich heritage of Morocco.
The festival takes place in various locations around Marrakesh, including historical sites like the El Badi Palace قصر البديع and the Djemaa el-Fna Square ساحة جامع الفناء.
![Morocco el badi palace](https://argancharm.com/wp-content/uploads/Morocco-el-badi-palace--1024x681.webp)
![morocco marrakech popular arts festival](https://argancharm.com/wp-content/uploads/morocco-marrakech-popular-arts-festival.webp)
International Nomads Festival (M’Hamid El Ghizlane)
The International Nomads Festival in M’Hamid El Ghizlane is a unique event that celebrates the culture and traditions of nomadic peoples
The festival is all about showcasing the lifestyle, music, art, and traditions of nomadic communities, particularly those in the Sahara region. It’s a colorful event where visitors can experience traditional music, dance, storytelling, and crafts.
![Morocco M’Hamid El Ghizlane](https://argancharm.com/wp-content/uploads/Morocco-MHamid-El-Ghizlane-.webp)
![M’Hamid El Ghizlane](https://argancharm.com/wp-content/uploads/MHamid-El-Ghizlane.webp)
The festival takes place in M’Hamid El Ghizlane محاميد الغزلان, a small town at the edge of the Sahara Desert in Morocco. It’s known for its beautiful desert landscapes and is the last major town before the vast desert expanse.
It usually happens annually, often in March or April, but the exact dates can vary each year, and is generally open to the public, attracting both locals and tourists.
What are the music Festivals of Morocco?
Mawazine
![morocco mawazine-festival](https://argancharm.com/wp-content/uploads/mawazine-festival.webp)
Mawazine officially known as “Mawazine Rhythms of the World” (Mawazine Rythmes du Monde), is one of the largest music festivals globally, held annually in Rabat, the capital city of Morocco. Established in 2001 by the Moroccan non-profit organization Maroc Culture, the festival aims to promote cultural diversity and provide a platform for artists from around the world. Taking place usually in May or June, Mawazine features a diverse lineup of international and local artists, spanning genres such as pop, rock, jazz, hip-hop, and traditional African and Arabic music. With millions of attendees each year, the festival has hosted renowned artists like Rihanna, Shakira, Stevie Wonder, and Bruno Mars, alongside local Moroccan performers, making it a rich and eclectic musical experience.
TANJAzz Festival
The TANJAzz Festival, held every September, is a vibrant jazz music event in Tangier, Morocco. This festival celebrates jazz music and brings together jazz musicians and enthusiasts from around the world
![Morocco tanjazz](https://argancharm.com/wp-content/uploads/Morocco-tanjazz.webp)
TANJAzz Festival takes place in the picturesque city of Tangier, known for its beautiful blend of cultures. The festival’s events are typically hosted in various venues throughout the city, including theaters and open-air stages.
It is held annually in September, and is open to the public, welcoming residents and tourists.
Boulevard for Young Musicians Festival
Sponsored by his Majesty Mohammed VI, The Boulevard for Young Musicians Festival, happen every September,in Casablanca it’s a cool music event in Morocco. It’s all about giving young and new musicians a chance to show their talent.
Everyone can come and enjoy the music. It’s a great place to see new and upcoming bands and artists.
![Morocco boulevard](https://argancharm.com/wp-content/uploads/Morocco-boulevard-.webp)
Some parts of the festival might be free, but for other events or concerts, you might need to buy tickets
Oudayas Jazz Festival
![Morocco Oudayas jazz festival](https://argancharm.com/wp-content/uploads/Morocco-Oudayas-jazz-festival-1024x684.webp)
The Oudayas Jazz Festival, held in October, is a vibrant event celebrating jazz music in the historic and picturesque city of Rabat.
This festival is all about jazz music, featuring a variety of jazz artists and bands from around the world.
It takes place in the Oudayas Kasbah, a beautiful and ancient part of Rabat known for its historic architecture and stunning views.
Essaouira Gnaoua Festival (Essaouira, June)
The Essaouira Gnaoua Festival, is a vibrant celebration of Gnaoua music, a traditional Moroccan music style with African and Berber roots.
The festival takes place in Essaouira, a beautiful coastal city in Morocco known for its rich history and culture, and it’s usually held in June.
The festival is open to the public.
![Morocco essaouira gnaoua festival](https://argancharm.com/wp-content/uploads/Morocco-essaouira-gnaoua-festival.webp)
Timitar Festival (Agadir, July)
The Timitar Festival, held in Agadir, is a renowned music festival celebrated annually. It’s known for its focus on Amazigh (Berber) culture and music, as well as its inclusion of international musical acts.
It’s typically held in July and is open to the public and attracts a diverse audience of both locals and tourists.
![Morocco timitar festival](https://argancharm.com/wp-content/uploads/Morocco-timitar-festival.webp)
What are the Agricultural/Harvest Festivals of Morocco?
Kalaat Mgouna Rose Festival
The Kalaat Mgouna Rose Festival, held in the town of Kalaat Mgouna in Morocco, is a vibrant and fragrant celebration of the region’s famous roses.
![Morocco Kalaat MGouna rose season](https://argancharm.com/wp-content/uploads/Morocco-Kalaat-MGouna-rose-season-1024x683.webp)
Kalaat Mgouna (قلعة مݣونة), is situated in the Dades Valley, known as the “Valley of Roses,” in the south of Morocco. This area is famous for its vast rose fields.
The festival usually takes place in May, aligning with the rose harvest season.
It’s is open to the public, and it’s a popular event for both locals and tourists. It’s a unique opportunity to experience the local culture and the beauty of the roses.
The Honey Festival of Immouzer
The Honey Festival of Immouzer, known locally as “Festival des Abeilles,” is an annual event that celebrates the region’s rich tradition of beekeeping and honey production.
It takes place in Immouzer, a town in the Atlas Mountains of Morocco, renowned for its natural beauty and abundant flora, which is ideal for beekeeping.
The festival is usually held in late spring or early summer, often in May or June, which aligns with the end of the honey harvesting season.
It’s a family-friendly event that provides a sweet and educational experience for all ages, and it’s open to the public, attracting both local visitors and tourists.
Date Festival
![Morocco Date festival](https://argancharm.com/wp-content/uploads/Morocco-Date-festival.webp)
The Date Festival is an annual celebration that honors the harvest of dates, one of the country’s most cherished and important agricultural products.
The festival is typically held in Erfoud, a town in Morocco known for its vast date palm groves. Erfoud is often referred to as the “Gate of the Sahara Desert.”
It usually takes place in early October, coinciding with the date harvest season.
The Date Festival is open to the public. It offers a glimpse into the traditional Moroccan way of life, especially in the Sahara region.
Cherry Festival
The Cherry Festival is a colorful and lively event that celebrates the cherry harvest in the region. It’s one of the country’s most famous and traditional festivals.
![Morocco cherry festival](https://argancharm.com/wp-content/uploads/Morocco-cherry-festival-1024x574.webp)
![sefrou cherry festival](https://argancharm.com/wp-content/uploads/sefrou-cherry-festival.webp)
The festival is held in Sefrou, a small town located in the Middle Atlas Mountains, about 30 kilometers from Fez.
It usually takes place in June, which is the cherry harvesting season in the area.
It’s open to the public and is a popular event for both locals and tourists. It’s a family-friendly occasion that offers fun and entertainment for all ages.