A Look at Some of the Famous International Festivals of Morocco

Morocco hosts several world-class festivals throughout the year. In fact, it is known as the Festival Capital of Africa! These festivals offer some of the best opportunities to have a glimpse into the local traditions, religion, music, dance and food of the country. Without further ado, here’s a list of some of the best festivals of Morocco!

International Nomads Festival

Image Credits: Simoberr

International Nomads Festival is an outdoor festival, which proudly showcases the heritage of nomadic life in the desert. This arts festival will be held from 16 to 18 March in 2017 at M’Hamid El Ghizlane in Zagora in the Draa Valley of Morocco. The unique festival attracts artists from numerous African nations and European countries. The festival is a great opportunity for visitors to understand all aspects of life in the desert – music, food, clothing and culture. The highlights of the festival are its cultural activities, displaying the heritage of nomadic tribes in all forms possible: crafts, painting, weaving, songs, music, dances, poetry and sports. Relish desert delicacies, such as the sand bread (Mella), and enjoy watching live sports including nomadic hockey and ‘ellaz’ – a race of Arabian camel dromedaries at the event!

Festival International du Film de Marrakech

The Festival International du Film de Marrakech, popularly known as Marrakech International Film Festival, is a world famous event attended by big names of the world glamour industry including stars from Hollywood. Many refer to the festival as North Africa’s answer to the Cannes Film Festival, and the event screens over 100 films within a short period of around 1 week. The festival aims to promote arts, the local film industry and encourage diversity in the field by bringing actors, producers, film makers and directors of different countries together under a single roof. Visit this glittering event to see your favourite international stars and films in the historical Moroccan city of Marrakesh.

Fes Festival of World Sacred Music

Famous national and international musicians flock to one of the largest Moroccan cities, Fes, during the Fes Festival of World Sacred Music every year. Scheduled to take place on 12^th to 20^th May 2017, this amazing music festival is a treat to the ears. Touted as one of the biggest music festivals in the world, the festival has been attended by big players of the world music industry including South African ‘white Zulu’ Johnny Clegg and U2’s Bono. The festival also turns out to be a cultural treat as you visit different venues – including the Batha Museum, Bab Boujloud, Bab Al Makina and even the Roman ruins of Volubilis – to enjoy performances by your favourite artist.

Mawazine Festival

The Mawazine Festival is an annual music festival promoting global music of all genres. The event is held in the capital of Morocco – Rabat – each year, and this year its 16^th edition is slated to take place on 12 to 20 May. Travel to this magnificent coastal city and sway to the rhythm of famous musicians from around the world during this festival, which has put Rabat on the map of music lovers. This year the festival will be graced by legendary French singer Charles Aznavour. Past editions of this world-famous event have seen several well-known artists including Shakira, Jessie J, Elton John, Kylie Minogue, Christina Aguilera, Shaggy and Sting.