Morocco is a country where ancestral traditions and cultural festivals take centre stage. Between religious rituals, family celebrations and artistic events, every festive moment is a window onto the Moroccan soul.
Morocco's religious traditions
Ramadan: A month of reflection and solidarity
Le RamadanThe holy month of fasting for Muslims is a time for meditation, prayer and solidarity.
- From sunrise to sunset, Moroccans fast, and theIftar (breaking the fast) is a time for families to get together and enjoy a hearty meal.
- The nights of Ramadan are lively, marked by prayers, meetings and a festive atmosphere in the streets.
Eid al-Fitr: A celebration of joy
L'Eid el-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan.
- Families wear new clothes, share refined meals and visit their loved ones to celebrate together.
- It's also a time for generosity, with donations made to those in greatest need.
Eid el-Kebir: The Feast of Sacrifice
L'Eid el-Kebiror Feast of Sacrifice, commemorates Abraham's sacrifice.
- A sheep is sacrificed and shared between the family, neighbours and the needy.
- This ritual is accompanied by festive meals, songs and moments of sharing.
Mimouna: A festival of friendship
Celebrated mainly by Moroccan Jewish communities, the Mimouna symbolises hospitality and friendship.
- The tables are set with sweet delicacies such as moufletas (honey pancakes), and the festivities include dancing and singing.
Morocco's cultural festivals
Fez Festival of World Sacred Music
This festival, held in the medina of Fez, brings together musicians from various spiritual traditions around the world.
- The concerts take place in iconic venues such as the Royal Palace, offering a unique experience of Sufi, Andalusian and Berber music.
Essaouira Gnaoua Festival
Le Gnaoua Festival celebrates a traditional musical genre with African, Berber and Arab roots.
- The concerts, held in the lively streets of Essaouira, attract musicians and spectators from all over the world, fusing tradition and modernity.
Tan-Tan Moussem
Listed as an intangible cultural heritage site by UNESCO, the Tan-Tan Moussem celebrates nomadic traditions.
- Camel races, singing and craft demonstrations punctuate this grandiose event.
Kalaat M'Gouna Rose Festival
Held in the Valley of the Roses, this festival celebrates the Damascus rose harvest.
- Parades, dances and rose-based products (such as essential oil) make this a not-to-be-missed event.
Marrakech Souks Festival
This festival showcases Moroccan craftsmanship, providing a showcase for traditional carpets, pottery, jewellery and textiles.
- Visitors can watch demonstrations of traditional skills in the colourful souks of Marrakech.
A journey to the rhythm of tradition with Desert Passions
With Desert PassionsDiscover Moroccan traditions and experience the emblematic festivals that punctuate the country's cultural life. Our tailor-made tours offer you a unique immersion in the heart of Moroccan authenticity.
