Five Festivals in Marrakech

It seems there is always something exciting happening in Morocco’s dynamic city of Marrakech, the country’s fourth-largest city and cultural hub. Marrakech is steeped in history and tradition as one of the most important of Morocco’s former imperial cities. A visit to Marrakech offers a vibrant cultural experience, as you stroll through its markets, past its iconic red sandstone buildings and browse the country’s largest traditional souk, selling everything from traditional Berber carpets and culinary delicacies to contemporary goods. If you’re lucky, you’ll be visiting Marrakech during one its renowned festivals, each celebrating a different aspect of the diverse culture. Here is an overview of some of the best festivals in Marrakech.

A photo posted by Silvana&Co. (@silvanacojewelry) on Dec 11, 2016 at 3:35pm PST

Marrakech International Film Festival

As one of the most important film festivals in Africa, the jury of film reviewers consists of international actors and notable figures, such as Martin Scorsese, Susan Sarandon and Leonardo DiCaprio. The city’s central square, the Jemma el Fnaa, transforms during the festival into an open-air cinema. Foreign visitors can enter the festival for free by registering online. The festival is held in early December.

Marrakech Popular Arts Festival

As the name implies, this traditional Moroccan festival features authentic Berber music, folk dancers and street performers from all over Morocco. The festival, held in June or July, takes places in the picturesque ruins of the Badi Palace and is a true celebration of Morocco’s tribal culture.

A photo posted by Marrakech Biennale (@mkechbiennale) on Feb 21, 2016 at 9:53am PST

Marrakech Biennale

This renowned art festival brings artists from all over the world to share their work, featuring conferences, interactive events and exhibitions around the city. The festival is intended to address social issues using contemporary art. The festival usually takes place in March.

Sun Festival

This highly anticipated music festival brings together local and foreign musicians across a wide variety of genres for five days of great music in different venues across the city. The festival provides a great opportunity to see the city and experience the region’s music scene.

A photo posted by Oasis Festival (@theoasisfest) on Sep 19, 2016 at 8:58am PDT

Oasis Festival

A newer festival, Oasis is a lively EDM series featuring today’s top underground electronic music talent. The festival is held in September and takes places at The Source, a stunning hotel complex set against the backdrop of the Atlas Mountains. Stages and activities are scattered throughout the resort, alongside its pools and villas. In 2016, the likes of Amine K, B. Traits, Eli & Fur, Bicep and Blawan were featured.