Casablanca – The seventh edition of the Orange Blossom Festival is lighting up Taza from April 24 to May 17.
Under the theme “Together for a historic city ready for the 21st century,” the festival is organized by Dar Assamaa, bringing together heritage, local traditions, and vibrant spring energy across the city.
Throughout the festival period and alongside its main events, visitors can explore exhibitions dedicated to Arabic calligraphy, Tetouan zellige craftsmanship, and locally produced aromatic and herbal products, adding another dimension to the celebration.
The opening day set the tone with a ceremony centered around the traditional distillation of orange blossoms, creating a smooth meeting point between past and present.
The atmosphere was further elevated by performances from the Maghani & Maani Orchestra of Fez, led by Soukaina Talbi and hosted by Abdelhak Bouayoun.
The program extends beyond performances, offering book signings, discussions, and conferences that echo the festival’s cultural focus.
On Monday, the event hosted a conference exploring the traditional distillation of orange blossoms and roses, combining live demonstrations with discussions around the practice.
The day also marked a key highlight, which is the announcement of a new partnership agreement between Dar Assamaa and the Multidisciplinary Faculty of Taza.
The evening continued with Andalusian classical music performances, led by Tazi Labzour Orchestra, adding a refined musical touch rooted in heritage.
After a short pause, the festival will resume on May 7 with a national conference held in collaboration with the Morocco Memory Coalition.
The event will bring together researchers and experts to discuss the role of civil society and public institutions in preserving and enhancing architectural heritage.
Read also: Casablanca to Host 4th Moroccan Andalusian Music Festival
On May 8-9, the festival shifts into celebration mode with two live evening concerts.
The first night will pay tribute to renowned artist Mohamed Bajeddoub, while the second will honor artist Bouthayna Elyaagoubi, alongside performances by a lineup of artists, including Dar Assamaa, Redwan El Asmar, and Sami Cherait.
The program continues on May 10 with an evening dedicated to Quranic recitation, bringing together some of Morocco’s most respected reciters in a spiritual setting.
Literature also finds its place in the festival, with a book presentation and signing scheduled for May 16.
The festival will close on May 17 with a traditional outdoor celebration known as “Nzaha” (outing), hosted in a rural setting and animated by an Aissawa troupe from Meknes, offering a festive and spiritual conclusion.
Through culture, music, and reflection, the Orange Blossom Festival reinforces Taza’s role as a living space where heritage is celebrated, practiced, and passed on.
