Fireworks Illuminate Casablanca in Celebration of Bastille Day
In the evening of July 13th, just after 10:30 PM, the sky over the Beauséjour neighborhood of Casablanca burst into color as fireworks lit up the night. The stunning display piqued the curiosity of local residents, some of whom were awakened by the sounds of the explosions, while others stepped out onto their balconies, phones in hand, trying to capture the spectacle that unfolded above the palm trees. This year's fireworks were not in honor of a wedding or a sporting event but were instead part of the French National Day celebrations, known as Bastille Day, organized annually by the Cercle Amical Français de Casablanca (CAFC).
A French Tradition in Morocco
Every year, the community of Casablanca, home to one of the largest French expatriate populations outside of France, comes together to commemorate this historic date. Bastille Day marks the storming of the Bastille prison on July 14, 1789, a pivotal event that laid the foundation for the French Republic. The CAFC, a historic club located at 109 Avenue Omar El Khayam, has long upheld this tradition, hosting an annual soirée that culminates in a fireworks display from its gardens. While the event is exclusive to club members, the fireworks serve as a delightful show for the neighborhood, providing front-row seats for all the local residents who can enjoy the view from their terraces.
Additionally, the French Consulate holds its own annual reception in its gardens on Rue du Prince Moulay Abdallah, and the French Embassy celebrates at the Residence of France in Rabat. It's important to note for those wondering, July 14 is not a public holiday in Morocco. The country's national celebration, known as Throne Day, takes place on July 30th and also features fireworks. For those who heard the evening's explosions, the mystery has been solved, allowing them to return to sleep peacefully, awaiting the next festive occasion.
As reported by maroc-hebdo.com.
