The Unspoken Rules of Moroccan Family Gatherings

They say every family has rules, but in Morocco, they exist just to be broken.

Fez – If you grew up Moroccan, you already know. Family gatherings are not just visits, they are a full production.

There are rules. No one says them out loud, but they exist. And somehow, no one ever follows them.

Rule 1: Don’t come late.

What actually happens: Everyone comes late.

Moroccan gatherings have a time, but no one cares. If you say 6 p.m., people arrive at 8. The aunt who lives next door somehow still manages to be “running late.” But when you arrive on time, you’re the weird one.

Rule 2: Greet everyone properly.

What actually happens: You kiss everyone’s cheeks (sometimes too many times).

In Morocco, greetings are serious business. One kiss? Too cold. Three kisses? Maybe.

But with some relatives, you just keep kissing until someone pulls away first. And you have to ask about everyone’s health, kids, work, and neighbors before you can even sit down.

Rule 3: Don’t gossip.

What actually happens: Gossip is the appetizer.

Every family gathering starts the same. “We shouldn’t talk about people.” Five minutes later, someone mentions a cousin’s new girlfriend, and boom, the gossip marathon begins.

Who got married, who got divorced, who gained weight, who disappeared, it’s all there.

Rule 4: Don’t eat too much.

What actually happens: They force-feed you until you can’t move.

The rule says, “Eat politely.” The reality? Your plate never empties.

Couscous, pastilla, tagine, sweets, it doesn’t stop. If you refuse, they think you’re sick or sad. If you eat too much, they say, “You’re eating like you just got out of prison.” There’s no winning.

Rule 5: Dress nicely, but not too much.

What actually happens: Every gathering turns into a fashion show.

Even if it’s just tea at your aunt’s house, someone arrives in full makeup, gold jewelry, and heels. You come in jeans and suddenly feel like you made a terrible mistake.

Rule 6: Don’t ask personal questions.

What actually happens: They ask all the personal questions.

Are you married yet? When are you getting married? When are you having kids? Why did you gain weight? Why did you lose weight? No topic is off-limits. Privacy? Never heard of it.

Rule 7: Leave early.

What actually happens: No one leaves. Ever.

You say you’re leaving at 9. You actually leave at midnight. And somehow, even after you say goodbye, you stand at the door talking for another hour.

Moroccan family gatherings have rules, but they’re more like suggestions. They’re loud, chaotic, nosy, and dramatic, but somehow, they’re also warm, funny, and unforgettable. That’s the Moroccan way.