Today, 6 November, Morocco celebrates Green March Day, one of several national holidays in the Moroccan calendar. Holidays can be a wonderful time to experience local culture, but they can also affect opening hours, transport and prices.
This guide explains the main public holidays in Morocco and how to plan your trip around them.
Two Types of Holidays
Morocco has two kinds of public holidays:
- National holidays with fixed dates in the Gregorian calendar.
- Religious holidays that follow the Islamic lunar calendar, so their dates move about 10 to 11 days earlier each year.
National Holidays (Fixed Dates)
- 1 January: New Year's Day.
- 11 January: Proclamation of Independence Manifesto.
- 14 January: Amazigh New Year (Yennayer), an official holiday since 2024.
- 1 May: Labour Day.
- 30 July: Throne Day, celebrating the King's accession.
- 14 August: Oued Ed-Dahab Day.
- 20 August: Revolution of the King and the People.
- 21 August: Youth Day.
- 6 November: Green March Day.
- 18 November: Independence Day.
Religious Holidays (Moving Dates)
- Eid al-Fitr: the end of Ramadan, usually two days of celebration.
- Eid al-Adha: the Festival of Sacrifice, the biggest family holiday of the year.
- Islamic New Year (1 Muharram).
- Mawlid: the birthday of the Prophet Muhammad.
Exact dates depend on the sighting of the moon and are confirmed only a few days in advance.
What About Ramadan?
Ramadan is not a public holiday, but it changes daily life for a whole month. Many restaurants close during the day outside tourist areas, working hours are shorter, and evenings become lively after the breaking of the fast. Ramadan in 2027 is expected to begin in early February.
How Holidays Affect Your Trip
National holidays
Banks, government offices and schools close. Most shops, restaurants, museums and tourist sites stay open. Transport runs normally, although there may be more traffic.
Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha
These have a bigger impact:
- Many small shops, workshops and restaurants close for one to three days, especially in the medinas.
- Trains and buses are very busy as families travel home. Book tickets early.
- Prices for transport and hotels can rise.
- Tourist hotels, riads and major sites usually stay open.
During Eid al-Adha, families celebrate with large meals. Discover the food traditions in our article on Eid al-Adha food in Morocco.
Tips for Travelling During Holidays
- Check the holiday calendar for your travel dates.
- Book transport and accommodation early around Eid.
- Plan medina shopping before or after Eid, as workshops may close.
- A private tour avoids crowded public transport.
- Wish people “Eid Mubarak” during Eid. It is always appreciated.
Is It Good to Travel During Holidays?
Yes, if you plan ahead. National holidays bring flags, decorations and a festive atmosphere. Religious holidays give a unique insight into family life and Moroccan hospitality. Learn more in our guide to Moroccan culture and traditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are tourist sites open on public holidays?
Most are open on national holidays. Some may close or change hours during Eid.
What is Green March Day?
It commemorates the Green March of 6 November 1975, a peaceful mass march organised by Morocco concerning the Sahara region.
What is Independence Day?
On 18 November, Morocco celebrates the return of King Mohammed V from exile in 1955, which led to independence in 1956.
Travel Stress-Free
Our team plans tours around holidays so you do not have to. Contact Fes Morocco Tours or explore our private desert tours.
