Feast of the Throne in Morocco

Feast of the Throne, also known as the "Fête du Trône" in French, is a significant national celebration in Morocco. It is an annual event that commemorates the enthronement of the reigning King of Morocco. The local Arabic name for the feast is "Eid Al-Arch."

The Feast of the Throne falls on July 30th every year, regardless of the day of the week. This date marks the day when King Mohammed VI ascended to the throne in 1999, succeeding his father, King Hassan II.

History

The Feast of the Throne has its origins in the early 20th century when Morocco was under French and Spanish protectorate rule. The celebration was initially held to honor the enthronement of King Mohammed V, the grandfather of the current King Mohammed VI. At that time, it was known as the "Fête du Sultan" (Sultan's Feast). The celebrations were held on November 18th, marking the day King Mohammed V was enthroned in 1927. After Morocco gained its independence in 1956 and became a kingdom, the celebration was renamed to the Feast of the Throne, and the date was eventually changed to July 30th to align with King Mohammed VI's enthronement.

Customs

National customs for Feast of the Throne in Morocco

The Feast of the Throne is a public holiday in Morocco, with people taking the day off from work to participate in the festivities. The celebrations include a variety of events and activities across the country. One of the main highlights is the King's speech, which is broadcasted on national television and radio. In his address, the King reflects on the country's progress, achievements, and future goals.

Parades, concerts, and cultural events are organized in major cities, showcasing the rich history and traditions of Morocco. People also participate in traditional dances and music performances, displaying their national pride and unity.

Local customs for Feast of the Throne in Morocco

In addition to the national customs, there are various local customs and traditions associated with the Feast of the Throne. In some regions, people organize community feasts, where families come together to share food and celebrate the day. Traditional Moroccan dishes, such as couscous and tagine, are often prepared for these gatherings.

In rural areas, local sports competitions and horse racing events are organized, showcasing the equestrian culture and skills of the Moroccan people. These events often draw large crowds and create a festive atmosphere in the local communities.

Conclusion

The Feast of the Throne is a significant event in Morocco, reflecting the country's rich history, traditions, and the strong bond between the monarch and the people. On this day, Moroccans come together to express their national pride, unity, and loyalty to the King. Through various customs and celebrations, the Feast of the Throne serves as a reminder of the progress and achievements of the nation, as well as its aspirations for the future.