Though initially unrecognized by authorities, Morocco's Throne Celebration has become a defining moment in the nation's civic calendar. The Sovereign celebrates his accession, reviving the spirit of cohesion and unity that makes this festival a major summer event in Maroc.

A People's Festival for Their Sovereign

The Throne Celebration commemorates the accession of Morocco's sovereign to the throne, held every July 30th—marking the July 30, 1999 coronation of Mohammed VI. This festival offers visitors the chance to experience lavish celebrations organized by the state throughout the country. Historically, however, the Throne Celebration did not receive official recognition.

The first Throne Celebration took place on November 18, 1933, in the city of Salé. It was initiated by several publications, most notably L'action du peuple (The People's Action), commemorating Mohammed V's accession to the throne on November 18, 1927. Later, under King Hassan II, the celebration was moved to March 3 each year.

If you visit Maroc during this occasion, you'll hear the Throne Celebration spoken of in glowing terms, as it embodied the unity of all Moroccan communities against French colonial policy. The Moroccan spirit found consecration in this event. While the underlying sentiment has evolved, the Throne Celebration remains a distinctly Maroc tradition.

A Living Tradition

Today, the Throne Celebration continues to spotlight a different city across the country. Salé was honored in 1933, and Tanger received this distinction in 2011. Wherever you are, you'll witness the numerous official celebrations of the Throne Celebration.

On this occasion, Morocco's sovereign delivers an address, broadcast across national media, on the state of the nation and upcoming projects and achievements for the coming year. This year, the Throne Celebration took on heightened significance following the events of spring. A constitutional reform was adopted and is expected to be finalized in the coming months.

The Throne Celebration is also marked by various official ceremonies—including the King's clemency toward certain prisoners and the oath-taking of newly promoted graduates from the country's military academies. Though Mohammed VI has forgone the elaborate festivities favored by his late father, Hassan II, every city in Maroc nonetheless unfurls its flags and dons its finest regalia. It's yet another way to discover Maroc.