In the heart of Marrakech, a celebration of Bahja promises to weave joy into the art of storytelling like never before.
Marrakech – From January 19 to 26, 2025, the Marrakech International Storytelling Festival returns with its third edition, themed “Mawssim Al Hikayat – Bahja” (Season of Stories – Joy).
This vibrant celebration gathers 100 storytellers from 33 countries, transforming the city into a global storytelling hub. The event also serves as an attempt to break the Guinness World Record for the longest continuous storytelling session – 120 hours — of uninterrupted tales at the iconic Jemaa El-Fnaa Square.
Bahja: The Spirit of Marrakech
Rooted in the cultural essence of Marrakech, Bahja embodies joy, connection, and the sensory richness of the city.
The festival pays homage to Marrakech’s legacy as a city of stories, amplifying its narrative traditions in every souk, square, and street corner.
A Week of Stories and Innovation
The festival’s events span venues from the historic Medina to universities and cultural institutions.
Highlights include storytelling workshops for young artists, international performances, and panels exploring storytelling’s role in mental health and education.
Pre-festival events in Safi and Essaouira set the stage with workshops and performances.
The World Record Attempt: Hikayathon
On January 20, the festival will launch a five-day storytelling marathon at Jemaa El-Fnaa, featuring storytellers from around the globe in an unbroken narrative tapestry.
This Hikayathon celebrates storytelling as a universal bridge connecting cultures and generations.
Empowering Narratives
The festival also emphasizes inclusion, featuring female storytellers and workshops for local tour guides, promoting cultural tourism while fostering global dialogue.
The celebration concludes on January 25 with a gala dinner honoring the Golden Storyteller of 2025 and marking the festival’s achievements.
From cultural exchange to breaking records, this festival cements Marrakech as the world’s storytelling capital.
