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The annual Sefrou Cherry Festival, commonly referred to as the Cherry Festival or Moussem Hab Al Moulouk, takes place in Sefrou, a Moroccan city .
The festival features a prominent beauty pageant in which stunning Moroccan women compete for the title of Miss Cherry, a title based on beauty, slenderness, education, and general knowledge.
Moroccan folklore is celebrated at the event through traditional dance, authentic Moroccan food, and a range of cultural, sporting, and artistic activities.
Visitors have the opportunity to explore the city of Sefrou, which has a long history as a major resting point for traders passing through Morocco.
The region around Sefrou has a mountainous terrain and temperate climate that is suitable for cherry production, and the thousands of cherry trees provide a spectacular display when they are in bloom.
Harvest time, around mid-June, is a particularly festive occasion in Sefrou, and the Cherry Festival is the perfect opportunity to celebrate.
The Sefrou Cherry Festival has a long and storied history, dating back to 1920. It has become a popular event among locals and attracts thousands of tourists each year who come to see the crowning of Miss Cherry and learn more about Moroccan culture.
The festival is one of seven Moroccan heritage items on the UNESCO list. It is held annually in mid-June and lasts for three festive days.
During this time, Moroccan folklore is celebrated through Fantazia, traditional dancing, and authentic Moroccan dishes. There are also many cultural, sporting, and artistic competitions held as part of the festival.
The highlight of the festival is a parade featuring performing troupes, rural and urban music, majorettes and bands, and floats showcasing local producers.
The whole population contributes to the success of the festival, with craftswomen making silk buttons for traditional dresses, fruit growers supplying cherries, local sports clubs participating in competitions, and music and dancing troupes animating the entire festival.
Visitors can also explore the city of Sefrou and discover its rich history and cultural sites.
The Sefrou Cherry Festival is a great opportunity to experience Moroccan culture and traditions firsthand and make lasting memories in one of the most beautiful and exotic countries in the world.
The friendly inhabitants of Sefrou are always happy to welcome visitors and share their traditions and way of life.
In addition to the events and activities of the Sefrou Cherry Festival, there are many other things to do and see in the city and surrounding region.
Sefrou is located in the Middle Atlas Mountains, which offer a range of outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding.
The city is also home to a number of historical and cultural sites, including the Kef El-Mumen cave (also known as the cave of the believer, at the entrance of the city) and the old Mellah (or Jewish quarter, located in the medina).
The Mellah was once home to a large Jewish population and was known for its strong religious community, earning it the nickname, “Little Jerusalem of Morocco.” Today, this part of the city is mostly inhabited by Muslims.
Sefrou is famous for its handcrafted leather goods, and the city’s souks (markets) are a great place to find authentic Moroccan leather products , as well as other handmade crafts and wares.
You will find multiple restaurants and cafes where you may can experience Moroccan cuisine and unwind with a cup of mint tea.
The Cherry Festival for 2023 will take place from June 10th to June 13th. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to experience the vibrant culture of Morocco and join in the joyous celebration of the Sefrou Cherry Festival.
