As the calendar turns to the Amazigh New Year, known as Yennayer, Morocco comes alive with a celebration of its ancient roots and vibrant traditions. This year (2025) the Amazigh calendar marks the year 2975. This annual event, held between January 12-14, marks the start of the agricultural year on the Amazigh calendar and is a time for renewal and festivity.
The Amazigh: Guardians of Morocco’s Heritage
The Amazigh, often referred to as Berbers, are the indigenous people of North Africa. Their history predates recorded time. Theirs is a resilient culture with its own artistry and tradition that has been passed down from generation to generation for longer than we have written records. From the soaring peaks of the Atlas Mountains to the sprawling sands of the Sahara, the Amazigh have shaped Morocco’s landscape and identity. Their contributions span architecture, cuisine, music, and language, rooting itself deeply in Morocco’s soul, like the cedar trees of the Middle Atlas.
To delve deeper into the Amazigh’s history and influence, explore our detailed guide on Morocco’s Berbers.
How Yennayer is Celebrated
Yennayer festivities blend ancient traditions with regional variations, creating a colorful, immersive experience. Highlights include:
- Traditional Feasts: Not surprisingly, food plays a major role in Yennayer celebrations. Traditional Moroccan food is almost always central to any celebration in Morocco! A special dish often prepared is tagola, made from wheat and honey, as well as couscous, of course! Sweets, dried fruits, nuts, and seasonal fruits are also shared to mark the occasion.
- Music and Dance: Communities come together to enjoy Amazigh music and dance performances. The ahwash and ahidous dances, accompanied by rhythmic drumming and chanting, are just one of the ways the Amazigh display communal joy.
- Cultural Dress:Â Many don traditional Amazigh attire, adorned with intricate silver jewelry and henna designs. These garments showcase the artistry and symbolism inherent in Amazigh craftsmanship.
- Storytelling and Poetry: Oral traditions play a vital role in preserving Amazigh culture. Elders share stories and recite or sing tahdidt (poetry), passing on wisdom and history to younger generations.
Experiencing Amazigh Culture Year-Round
While Yennayer is a special time, Morocco offers soooooo many ways to experience Amazigh heritage throughout the year, from savoring a traditional tajine in an Atlas Mountain village on a mountain walk to joining in an ahwash dance under the Milky Way in the Sahara. Visit the high-altitude villages of the High Atlas Mountains, where terraced fields and clay houses reflect ancient traditions. Explore the Ziz Valley or the Draa Valley, where Amazigh hospitality welcomes visitors with open arms. A journey to the Sahara Desert reveals the timeless, photographic lifestyle of nomadic Amazigh communities.
For tips on planning an authentic cultural experience, check out our blog and other resources to explore Morocco’s hidden gems and meeting local artisans.
Why Celebrate Yennayer with Journey Beyond Travel?
At Journey Beyond Travel, we believe that meaningful travel stems from genuine connections with people and places. Our carefully curated itineraries offer immersive experiences that highlight Morocco’s diverse heritage, including its Amazigh roots. By joining one of our tours, you’ll have the chance to:
- Share meals with Amazigh families.
- Participate in traditional music and dance.
- Learn about the ancient art of Amazigh weaving and jewelry-making.
Each journey is designed to foster understanding and appreciation through unforgettable moments, like sharing stories with Amazigh elders around a fire or learning the intricate art of Amazigh weaving firsthand.
Join the Celebration
As Yennayer approaches, there’s no better time to discover the heart of Morocco. Whether you’re exploring the bustling souks of Marrakesh, hiking the Atlas Mountains, or marveling at the starry skies of the Sahara, the Amazigh spirit is found everywhere. You just have to look.
To embark on a journey that reveals Morocco’s soul, shaped by its Amazigh heritage and timeless traditions, Contact us today to begin your journey.
Happy Amazigh New Year – Asogas amayno!
About the Author
Written and photographed by Morocco expert Lucas Peters. After spending years traveling to the distant corners of Morocco and writing about his adventures, he penned the best-selling guidebook Moon Morocco as well as Marrakesh and Beyond. He is the Managing Director of Journey Beyond Travel and currently lives in Tangier with his family.
