Celebrate Christmas in Morocco
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Best Morocco Christmas Tour
When people think of Christmas, they often imagine snowy landscapes, Christmas trees, and cozy fireplaces. But what if you could celebrate the festive season in a warm and exotic land like Morocco? Although Morocco is a predominantly Muslim country and Christmas is not an official holiday, the magic of the season can still be felt in this vibrant and culturally rich destination.
Spending Christmas in Morocco offers a unique blend of local traditions and festive celebrations. You’ll discover a world where twinkling lights, Moroccan lanterns, and warm hospitality come together to create a one-of-a-kind holiday experience.
Do Moroccans Celebrate Christmas?
Although Christmas is not an official holiday in Morocco, the festive spirit is embraced by its small Christian community, expatriates, and even some locals. Churches in cities like Casablanca and Rabat hold midnight masses, where traditional hymns blend beautifully with Moroccan music. Expat communities, international hotels, and upscale restaurants often host special Christmas events, creating a cozy and festive ambiance for travelers and locals alike.
In Moroccan cities, you’ll find a fascinating mix of cultures. Luxury hotels offer lavish Christmas Eve dinners featuring both Western and Moroccan cuisine, while bustling markets light up with holiday cheer. Santa Claus may even trade his sleigh for a camel in some areas, offering a whimsical take on traditional Christmas imagery.
Christmas Decorations in Morocco
Decorating for Christmas in Morocco is a delightful adventure. International supermarkets in major cities stock artificial trees and ornaments, but for a more authentic touch, visitors often turn to local markets and artisan shops. Moroccan lanterns, with their intricate designs, double as stunning Christmas decorations. Berber carpets in red and green hues make excellent tree skirts, and brass trays can hold candles or ornaments, adding a warm glow to any room.
For those looking to merge Moroccan aesthetics with holiday traditions, consider using hand-painted glass baubles, miniature tagines, or even a tajine as a nativity scene holder. These unique decorations not only enhance the festive atmosphere but also serve as lasting mementos of your Moroccan Christmas adventure.
How Expats and Visitors Celebrate Christmas in Morocco
Expatriates and tourists bring their own Christmas traditions to Morocco. Many hotels, restaurants, and riads offer special Christmas menus, blending Moroccan flavors with festive dishes. Midnight mass services are held in churches like the Notre Dame de Lourdes Cathedral in Casablanca or St. Peter’s Cathedral in Rabat, welcoming those who wish to celebrate the religious aspect of Christmas.
For expatriates, Christmas often includes:
- Decorating with imported ornaments or locally crafted items.
- Hosting holiday dinners that combine Moroccan and Western cuisines.
- Seeking out traditional Christmas treats and creating festive atmospheres in their homes.
To customize your own Christmas in Morocco
Christmas in Morocco’s Major Cities
Christmas in Marrakech
Marrakech, with its vibrant souks and lively streets, offers a magical Christmas atmosphere. The Medina sparkles with lights, and many hotels and riads host Christmas Eve dinners featuring a mix of Moroccan and international dishes. Djemaa el-Fna square comes alive with storytellers, musicians, and performers under the festive lights.
A horse-drawn carriage ride through the city’s illuminated streets adds a romantic touch to the season. Some luxury hotels even host Christmas markets in their courtyards, offering a mix of traditional crafts and seasonal treats.
Christmas in Casablanca
Casablanca combines modernity with tradition during Christmas. The Morocco Mall often showcases a massive Christmas tree and festive displays. Restaurants and hotels in areas like Ain Diab create holiday menus to cater to visitors. For those seeking a spiritual experience, the midnight mass at Notre Dame de Lourdes Cathedral is a beautiful way to mark Christmas Eve.
Christmas in Rabat
In Rabat, the blend of old and new makes Christmas celebrations special. The Sofitel Jardin des Roses is known for its lavish decorations and gourmet Christmas dinners. The diplomatic community in Rabat hosts international events, making the city a hub for expatriate celebrations. The Kasbah of the Udayas, with its blue and white walls, becomes a peaceful retreat during the holidays.
Christmas in Fes
Fes, Morocco’s cultural capital, offers a quieter but equally enchanting Christmas experience. The ancient medina, Fes el Bali, is perfect for finding handmade gifts like pottery, textiles, and jewelry. Some riads offer Christmas dinners with a Moroccan twist, providing a warm and intimate setting for the holiday.
Unique Christmas Experiences in Morocco
One of the most unforgettable ways to celebrate Christmas in Morocco is by venturing into the Sahara Desert. Imagine spending Christmas Eve under a canopy of stars, with the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi stretching into the horizon. Morocco Dream Safari offers holiday-themed experiences, such as camel treks with Santa hats or desert camps decorated with festive lights.
In coastal towns like Essaouira, locals have even created their version of snowmen—Christmas sandmen made from sand and adorned with seashells. This charming tradition reflects Morocco’s creativity and adds a whimsical touch to the holiday season.
FAQs About Christmas in Morocco
Is Christmas a Public Holiday in Morocco?
No, Christmas is not a public holiday in Morocco, as it is a predominantly Muslim country. However, the festive season is still widely celebrated by Christian communities, expatriates, and many locals.
Can I Find Christmas Decorations in Morocco?
Yes, you can find Christmas decorations in international supermarkets, expat neighborhoods, and artisan shops. Moroccan-inspired decorations, such as lanterns and hand-painted ornaments, add a unique touch to your holiday celebrations.
What Should I Expect at a Moroccan Christmas Dinner?
Moroccan Christmas dinners often feature a blend of local and Western dishes. Tagines, couscous, and Moroccan pastries are commonly served alongside more traditional Christmas fare.
Are There Special Events for Christmas in Morocco?
Many luxury hotels and international communities host Christmas parties, dinners, and even themed tours. Midnight mass services are held in cities like Casablanca and Rabat.
What Are the Best Cities to Visit for Christmas in Morocco?
Marrakech, Casablanca, Rabat, and Fes are among the top destinations for a festive Moroccan Christmas. Each city offers a unique blend of traditions, decorations, and cultural experiences.