This month’s events start with ‘Marrakech du Rire’, the 7th annual International Festival of Humour being held between 28 June and 02 July. Aimed at a francophone audience but featuring nationally and internationally renowned comedians, the festival is compered by the events’ founder, Franco-Moroccan actor and comedian Jamel Debbouze (one of the stars of the film ‘Amélie’). The Marrakech Festival du Rire is held in the El Badi Palace, other events taking place at the Theatre Royal and French Institute.
In mid-June (date still to be confirmed) a 3-day Cherry Festival is held in Sefrou (a village closer to Fes than Marrakech) to celebrate the region’s farming and cultural heritage. The event includes a ‘Cherry Queen’ pageant consisting of a parade, with bands, street performers and colourful floats, as well as a market selling not only cherries but an array of other local products. An efficient, affordable rail service links Marrakech with Fes, the journey alone, through the Moroccan countryside and desert landscapes, making this an event well worth undertaking.
Other June 2017 Events
The Marrakech Popular Arts Festival is also scheduled for June (date to be confirmed). Initiated in 1960 by King Mohammed V, this is one of Morocco’s oldest festivals mounted to highlight the importance of Moroccan culture, notably through song and dance. The event also features military displays and guest appearances by musical artists from many countries.
Between 29th June and 2nd July, Essaouira hosts the 20th annual Gnaoua & World Music Festival. In addition to local ‘gnaoua’ rhythms, many other musical genres are on display including contemporary and traditional music, rock, pop and jazz. The festival also features theatrical and street performances and there is, as well, a thriving market. Just three hours from Marrakech by luxury coach, the festival (and Essaouira itself) is well worth including in one’s schedule as an add-on to a Marrakech holiday.
Other Things to do in June 2017
The Kasbah’s ‘Saadian Tombs’, with their fine examples of traditional Moroccan art, offer a welcome contrast with the hustle and bustle of the Marrakech medina, as do the city’s many excellent museums and gardens. Alternatively, you can take an excursion into the Atlas to see the famous Ouzoud Falls which plunge 110 metres (360 ft) down rugged cliffs. You can also visit caves housing ancient water mills and enjoy a traditional meal at the restaurant located beside the picturesque path which follows the falls down into the gorge.