The Amazigh New Year 2975, known as “Yennayer”, was celebrated yesterday in Morocco, marking an important occasion in highlighting Amazigh cultural heritage. This day, corresponding to January 14 of the Gregorian calendar, constitutes an opportunity for Amazigh communities to celebrate their identity and share their traditions with Moroccan society.
A celebration rooted in tradition
Yennayer is a symbolic date associated with the historical and agricultural roots of the Amazigh populations. This celebration, several millennia old, marks the start of the agricultural year and is seen as a good time to hope for prosperous harvests. It is also linked to the transmission of cultural memory and ancestral practices.
In Morocco, where the Imazighen represent a significant part of the population, Yennayer has a special meaning. With the recognition of Amazigh as an official language in 2011, this celebration benefits from increased visibility. This year, the festivities involved varied participation, bringing together citizens, authorities and community stakeholders.
Festivities across the country
Several Moroccan cities, such as Agadir, Marrakech, Fez, Casablanca or Rabat, organized cultural and artistic events to celebrate Yennayer. These events included traditional music performances, dances, craft exhibitions and conferences on Amazigh culture.
Traditional dishes played an important role during these celebrations. Couscous, often prepared with fresh vegetables and barley grains, has been present in many homes. In some regions, a date stone or bean was hidden in the dish, a custom that symbolizes hope and luck for the coming year.
Traditional clothing, decorated with Amazigh motifs, was also highlighted. The women wore silver jewelry engraved with typical symbols, illustrating the importance of preserving and passing on this heritage. In rural areas, communities gathered for songs and dances around bonfires, continuing ancient rituals.
-Official recognition of Yennayer
For several years, community and cultural actors have been calling for Yennayer to be recognized as a national holiday. This request aimed to strengthen the recognition of Amazigh heritage in Moroccan identity. For the second year in a row, Yennayer is now celebrated as a public holiday and the festivities organized show a growing interest in this date.
This year, the participation of public officials in the events illustrated the importance given to this cultural element. Initiatives have been put in place to raise awareness among young people of Amazigh history and traditions, particularly in schools and cultural institutions.
A marker of cultural diversity
The Amazigh New Year is not only a celebration for Amazigh communities; it also reflects the cultural richness of Morocco. By promoting the traditions and values of the Imazighen, Yennayer contributes to strengthening social ties and national cohesion.
In a context of growing recognition of cultural heritage, this celebration highlights the importance of preserving the country’s diverse heritage while promoting an inclusive society.
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