Marrakech – Ifrane’s International Festival is back by popular demand for its sixth edition. Organized by the Association Forum d’Ifrane pour la Culture et le Développement (AFICED) in partnership with the local provincial and communal councils, the event showcases a stellar lineup of artists this week.
On Tuesday night August 20, the festival kicked off with a stunning Ahidouss symphony that brought together multiple groups of this ancient art form.
The crowd was swept off their feet, as the festival opened with a rhythm that had everyone dancing under the stars.
Locals and tourists, both national and international, were captivated by the poetic verses, enchanting melodies, and vibrant dances.
The Ahidouss performance didn’t just steal the show; it reminded everyone that when it comes to Morocco’s musical heritage, the Amazigh know how to keep tradition alive – and make it look effortlessly cool.
In a statement to MAP, Nabil El Jay, the festival’s artistic director, mentioned that this year’s edition, which will run until August 24, coincided with Morocco’s celebration of Youth Day.
El Jay explained that the theme of this edition, “The Forest: A National Heritage,” was chosen due to Ifrane’s unique location at the heart of the Middle Atlas, surrounded by cedar forests.
In this context, he said that the festival aims to raise awareness about the significance of these forests, a vital national treasure.
Furthermore, a scientific conference, aptly themed “The Tree of Hope,” will delve into this topic as part of the event’s cultural offerings.
This year’s festival boasts a rich and diverse lineup, blending tradition with modernity.
Big names from both Moroccan and international music scenes, including Najat Atabou, Hatim Ammor, and Maître Gims, are set to take the stage, making it an event not to be missed.
The evening, attended by the Governor of Ifrane Province, Abdelhamid El Mazid, and local officials, was also marked by a special tribute to Soufiane El Bakkali, the double Olympic and world champion in the 3,000m steeplechase, following his remarkable achievement at the Paris Olympics.
The opening night also featured performances by several renowned Amazigh artists, including Imane El Hajeb, Badr Ouabi, and Yamna, who lit up the stage with their captivating music.
This year’s program also features the inaugural “Village of Local Products” exhibition and several sports competitions, including regional tournaments in volleyball, badminton, futsal, clay pigeon shooting, and fishing.
Launched in 2016, the Ifrane International Festival aims to promote and enhance the economic, natural, and tourist potential of the Ifrane province, while celebrating the richness and diversity of Morocco’s intangible heritage and its openness to other world cultures.
