National Festival of Popular Arts, Marrakech
Marrakech, El Badi Palace
A festival of Morocco's traditional music and dance troupes at El Badi Palace in Marrakech, usually in early July.
Dates
- 1 July 2027 – 15 July 2027 — 56th edition; dates not published, early July estimated from 2026 (2-6 July) (estimated date)
Source: MWN Lifestyle (Morocco World News), Marrakech to host 55th National Festival of Popular Arts — accessed 14 October 2026
Key facts
The National Festival of Popular Arts, founded in 1960, brings traditional music and dance troupes from every region of Morocco to Marrakech each year. It is organised by the association Le Grand Atlas and the Ministry of Youth, Culture and Communication.
The 55th edition ran from 2 to 6 July 2026. The main performances took place at El Badi Palace, the festival's historic stage, and a new stage opened at the Ben Youssef Madrasa; the edition paid tribute to aita (popular song from the Atlantic plains) with singer Zina Daoudia.
Good to know
- Venues: El Badi Palace (16th century) and the Ben Youssef Madrasa are two medina monuments that can also be visited outside the festival.
- Heat: in early July, Marrakech is very hot during the day; performances take place in the evening.
Frequently asked questions
When is the Festival of Popular Arts in 2027?
Usually in early July: the 2026 edition ran from 2 to 6 July.
Where are the performances held?
Mainly at El Badi Palace in the Marrakech medina; in 2026, an additional stage was set up at the Ben Youssef Madrasa.
How long has the festival existed?
Since 1960.