Events in Marrakesh

The majority of locals in Marrakech are of the Muslim faith, so many important religious festivals will be marked throughout the year, including the Ras el Am (Muslim New Year) on the 10^th February, Ramadan (month of fasting) from October 16^th and Aid el Mouloud (the birthday of the Prophet Mohammad) on May 03. There normally isn't anything of particular interest to tourists to observe, but be aware that these events may disrupt the opening of some shops and other attractions.

For tourists, some of the more interesting mainstream festivals and events in Marrakech include:

Popular Arts Festival: 2-7 July

A celebration of the arts with free music, acrobatic and magic street performances, art and local craft demonstrations held in the streets of the city. The climax of the event is a thrilling routine of stunts performed on horseback, held just outside the city in a field next to the Bab Jdid.

For more information, visit: http://www.marrakechfestival.com

Sand Marathon: 27 March- 7 April

You would have to wonder why on earth elite athletes would want to take part in a gurelling 150 mile long marathon, 7 days running in the intense heat of the desert and suffering from intermittent sand storms! This event is all in the name of charity, which goes towards the development of regional infrastructure.

For more information, visit: http://www.darbaroud.com

International Film Festival of Marrakech: 18- 22 September

The African answer to the Cannes Film Festival was begun in the year 2000 and is open to actors, producers and film makers from all over the world to celebrate new productions and award prizes for outstanding contributions to the industry. The public are invited to attend film premieres which are held in various locations around the city for the duration of the festival.

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