Visiting Morocco and seeing the sights is one thing, but actually getting to know its culture and history is an entirely different ball game. Don't you think it's better that you understand more about Morocco? A good way to do so is to know its public holidays. Many of them pay tribute to the many historical events that led Morocco to become the independent country that it is today. You'll also know when the most important and most festive days in the country are. Take a look at these ones. Do note, however, that they're only national public holidays and not holy days related to any religion.
Independence Manifesto Day (January 11)
In most countries, like
France, the
US, and the like, the day they gained their independence remains an important public holiday to this day. In Morocco, however, they have the pleasure of celebrating two 'Independence Days.' The first one every year is the 'Independence Manifesto Day,' celebrated every January 11. On this day in 1944, the Proclamation of Independence of Morocco, an important document that installed the country's democratic and constitutional government, was signed. It was also one of the first concrete signs of Morocco's true independence, both from French colonialism and from the ashes of the Second World War.
Throne Day (June 30)
Just like in the
Netherlands and
Spain, Morocco is a country that celebrates the day its current monarch ascended the throne. Now, the kingdom of Morocco celebrates 'Throne Day' every July 30, the day when Mohammed VI of Morocco, the current king of the country, was crowned. During this day, everyone takes the day off and watches/listens to the present monarch give a speech. He then gets on a horse and parades all throughout the city, Rabat. It's one of the most important national public holidays in Moroccan culture and is celebrated all over the country.
Revolution Day (August 20)
Celebrated on August 20 of every year, Morocco's 'Revolution Day' remembers the exile of Sultan Mohammed V in 1953. In the early 20th-century, when Morocco was under the French protectorate, Sultan Mohammed V ruled as the country's monarch. Due to a strong rise in nationalism, the French pressured the Sultan to sign a pact of surrender, allowing France full reign over the country and squashing all the movements fighting for full independence at the time. However, Mohammed V refused, resulting in getting exiled to Corsica and Madagascar. This national public holiday pays tribute to his bravery which started the country's fight for independence.
Green March (November 6)
During the 1970s, Morocco and Spain were at odds with each other regarding the Spanish Sahara, a western territory that was located in the former but was controlled by the latter. The conflict reached a climax when, in November of 1975, a mass demonstration consisting of 350,000 Moroccans marched into the Sahara territory to claim Morocco's sovereignty of the land. At the time, apart from this historic protest, Morocco was also supported by France and the US. As a result, in 1976, what was once called the 'Spanish Sahara' of Spain officially became the Western Sahara of Morocco. Thus, the 'Green March' holiday every November 6 was born.
Morocco National Day (November 18)
Also known as 'Morocco National Day,' November 18 is when Morocco celebrates its official (and original) Independence Day. Also called '
Eid Al Istiqula;,' this day marks the return of Sultan Mohammed V from exile. His anticipated comeback was the culmination of the kingdom's fight for independence and full sovereignty of the country against its European colonizers during the mid-20th century. On this day, the current monarch, King Mohammed VI, gives a speech, people parade all over the streets, families get together and hold feasts and the like. It's one of the most celebratory days in Morocco every year.
Here in Morocco, many of its national public holidays pay tribute to all the historic events that led to what made the country what it is now. It's thanks to these significant events that Morocco has become a top tourist destination today!
