The 10th National Street Arts Festival in Fez, Morocco, came to a close on Saturday with a vibrant carnival parade that drew a large crowd. The event was held under the patronage of King Mohammed VI and organized by the Ministry of Youth, Culture, and Communication. The festival, which ran from October 29, aimed to celebrate the country's unity and cultural heritage.
The closing ceremony featured a spectacular parade that started at the Regional Directorate of Culture and traversed through the streets of Fez, including Moulay Youssef and Hassan II. Over 2000 participants, including folk art troupes, street artists, and youth delegations, took part in the event, showcasing their talents and expressing their commitment to national unity.
The parade included children and young people dressed in traditional attire representing Morocco's 12 regions, accompanied by brass bands, majorettes, and percussionists. The event also featured live art performances and sculptures that highlighted significant milestones in Morocco's modern history, including the Green March and the country's socio-economic development achievements.
One of the highlights of the festival was a drone show that lit up the sky above Bab Amer Square with 400 drones forming various national symbols and images, including the Moroccan flag and a map of the country. The crowd enthusiastically welcomed the display, which combined art and technology to celebrate national unity and territorial integrity.
The festival, which ran for three days, featured a range of artistic activities, including street theater performances, circus acts, and dance shows. The events took place in various locations across the city, including Bab Bougloued and Bab Amer squares, the Ain Qadous Cultural Center, and other open spaces.
The festival also included musical performances by Moroccan artists and traditional music groups, showcasing the country's rich cultural diversity. The events were well-attended by the public, who appreciated the opportunity to experience Morocco's vibrant street art scene.
According to Abdelilah Nafis, Director of Culture for the Fez-Meknes region, the festival was marked by the participation of artistic and heritage groups from across the country, reflecting the diversity and richness of Moroccan culture. The event was a success, with a large turnout of spectators who appreciated the artistic and cultural expressions on display.
Key points
- The festival featured a grand carnival parade with over 2000 participants and a drone show with 400 drones.
- The event celebrated Morocco's national unity and cultural heritage.
- The festival included a range of artistic activities, including street theater, circus acts, and musical performances.
