Marrakech Events and Festivals

Marrakech Marathon: Each year, more than 5000 runners join in the Marrakech International Marathon and the Half-Marathon. The route is somewhat gruelling but at least temperatures are mild (20 to 25°C) in the day and the scenery is beautiful. The marathon is considered one of the fastest in the world. For more information, visit www.marathon-marrakech.com.

Tafraoute: This marks the end of the winter rains and sees the city come alive with celebrations. There is guaranteed to be music, dancing and merriment.

Fatih Mouharam: This is also known as Islamic New Year and sees the Muslims in the city celebrate by visiting mosques and praying together with friends and families.

Independence Day: This is a weeklong celebration celebrating the independence of Morocco from France in 1956. Much of the day to day work stops and parties are held throughout the city.

Marrakech Popular Arts Festival: this amazing festival captivates Marrakech for five days. The El-Badi Palace is the main venue, packed with eager performers and spectators. Here, you’ll enjoy incredible performances by Berber musicians and dancers of the High Atlas, as well as works by musicians from other parts of Morocco. Belly dancers add fuel to the highly energised atmosphere and everyone has a great time. For more information, visit: www.marrakechfestival.com

Fête du Trône: At the end of July, this festival commemorates Mohammed VI’s accession to the throne in 1999 and is the most important secular public holiday in Morocco. Flags and light-bulb garlands are everywhere and there are occasional fireworks. Sometimes free entertainment is provided.

Ramadan: is an Islamic holiday which covers an entire month. During this time, Muslims fast to commemorate God’s revelation of the Koran to the prophet Mohammed. While the daytime is sedate as everyone fasts, the night time is filled with revelry. Cafés stay open in Marrakech until 03:00.

Eid al-Fitr: marks the end of Ramadan with three full days of feasting as well as the slaughter of sheep and goats. It is known as the Feast of Sacrifice and commemorates Abraham’s offering of his son to God. It is a time for families to get together and pray.

Marrakech Film Festival: this festival still does not have a set date; however, it is already working its way up to the popularity of the Cannes Film Festival. With a stamp of approval by the Tribeca Institute, the festival is genuine in its own right and has seen directors like Martin Scorsese and Abbas Kiarostami come together to exchange ideas in this beautiful city.