A Glimpse Into a Traditional Friday Routine in Morocco

The start of the weekend in Morocco is the perfect mix of prayers, family moments, and couscous that will make you wish every day was Friday.

Fez – Friday in Morocco is a special day, marked by Muslim rituals and family traditions that create a perfect balance between religious devotion and enjoyment.

The day begins early, right after the Fajr prayer. The morning call to prayer echoes through the streets, signaling the start of a peaceful day.

After prayer, families gather for a light breakfast, often enjoyed with tea and traditional bread.

Many Moroccans then start their day by playing recitations of the Quran in the house, particularly Surah Al-Kahf, filling the home with a sense of calmness and spirituality.

It’s also a common practice to burn “bakhoor” (traditional incense) , adding a fragrant touch to the morning.

As the day unfolds, everyone prepares for one of the week’s highlights: the special Friday lunch. The delicious smell of couscous fills the air as it’s carefully prepared for the big meal.

But before everyone sits down to enjoy the food, the call for the Duhr prayer is heard, and the men head to the mosque for the group prayer and to listen to the Friday Khoutba (sermon).

The women often, meanwhile, pray in the comfort of their homes.

Once prayers are done, it’s time for the much-anticipated family meal. The table is filled with steaming couscous, a dish that’s central to Moroccan Friday lunches, along with “lben” (fermented milk) to complement the flavors and aid digestion. The iconic Moroccan dish is topped with pumpkin, eggplant, among other vegetables and usually has either chicken or beef for the meat options.

The whole family gathers around, savoring each bite while chatting and laughing. This lunch is often the longest meal of the week, as everyone takes their time to enjoy not just the food, but also the company.

When the meal comes to an end, it’s time for a well-earned nap. After that, the day continues as usual, but with the warmth of family and tradition lingering long after the meal.

This Friday routine in Morocco isn’t just about the rituals—it’s about the connections, the calm, and the joy of spending time with loved ones.

It’s a day to recharge spiritually, physically, and emotionally, creating memories that last well beyond the weekend.