Ifrane International Festival Kicks Off August 20th for its 6th Edition
Ifrane Celebrates its Cultural Heritage with the 6th Annual International Festival
Nestled in the heart of Morocco, the city of Ifrane is gearing up for a vibrant celebration of art, music, and environmental awareness: the 6th edition of the International Festival of Ifrane. Organized by the Ifrane Forum Association for Culture and Development (AFICED) in partnership with local and regional authorities, this year’s festival runs from August 20th to 24th under the evocative theme “Forests: A National Treasure.”
The festival kicks off with a dazzling display of Ahidous, a captivating traditional Berber art form recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. More than just music and dance, Ahidous is a powerful expression of Berber identity, featuring rhythmic movements, poetic verses in the Tamazight language, and the pulsating beat of drums.
This year’s opening ceremony will showcase a unique Ahidous symphony, commissioned by AFICED in 2017. This extraordinary performance brings together 260 artists from 22 different Ahidous troupes, representing the rich cultural diversity found across Morocco. The symphony serves as a powerful symbol of unity and the harmonious coexistence of diverse identities.
The International Festival of Ifrane is known for its eclectic musical lineup, and this year is no exception. Attendees can look forward to performances by renowned Moroccan artists such as Hatim Ammor, Najat Aatabou, and Zakaria Ghafouli. Adding to the global flavor of the festival are international acts like James, Lahour, and Ahouzarr, promising an unforgettable musical experience for all.
Beyond the music, the festival offers a diverse program of cultural and sporting events. Thought-provoking seminars, engaging cultural competitions, and awareness campaigns will address pressing environmental issues, particularly water conservation and the preservation of Morocco’s precious forests – the vital lungs of the Middle Atlas Mountains and the nation. Sports enthusiasts can participate in a range of activities, including pétanque, basketball, cross-country running, and archery.
The International Festival of Ifrane has become a major event on both the national and international stage, attracting thousands of visitors each year. It serves as a vibrant platform for showcasing the economic, natural, and touristic potential of the Ifrane region, while celebrating the richness and diversity of Moroccan heritage and its openness to the world.
