Bilmawen Carnival: A Celebration of Amazigh Heritage
Starting Thursday, May 28, 2026, the prefecture of Inezgane Aït Melloul will host the highly anticipated 9th edition of the international carnival known as "Bilmawen," which will run until June 1. Shortly thereafter, Agadir will take its turn to celebrate with the 3rd edition of "Bilmaoun, the International Carnival of Agadir," scheduled from June 15 to June 21, themed "Bilmaoun, the Joy of Amazigh Rhythms." These events not only promise a feast for the senses but also aim to foster cultural dialogue and strengthen ties among communities.
A Cultural Tapestry of Tradition and Modernity
At the heart of these festivities lies the enigmatic figure of Boujloud, also known as Bilmawen, Bilmaoun, or Boulabtayne, varying by region. This captivating character of Amazigh heritage emerges annually following Tafaska, donning costumes made from sheep, goat, or sometimes cow skins, with his face obscured by a mask or darkened with charcoal. A hybrid of man and mythological creature, Boujloud traverses the streets accompanied by the enchanting sounds of flutes, drums, and traditional songs and dances.
This ancient tradition, deeply rooted in various Moroccan regions, harkens back to a time long past. Despite occasional controversies related to its similarities with certain pagan rites, it remains firmly embedded in the collective memory. The allure of Boujloud continues to draw crowds, as both fear and amusement intertwine in the festive atmosphere that has defined popular celebrations for generations.
Each region showcases its unique variations and stylistic codes. Some costumes are adorned with bird feathers, seashell necklaces, or even hoofs attached to the wearers' wrists, while others display headdresses crafted from spiky pumpkins. The ingenuity of the young participants is evident in their elaborate disguises, crafted from wool and animal hides.
This year, Inezgane's carnival will bring together local associations from the Souss-Massa region alongside international delegations from Bulgaria, France, Belgium, and the Canary Islands. Organizers aim to create a cultural dialogue space and strengthen connections among peoples while celebrating Morocco's intangible heritage. The program includes juggling performances, musical evenings, and artistic animations across various city venues. The peak of the celebrations will occur on Sunday with a grand parade along Mohammed V Avenue, linking Dcheira El Jihadia to Inezgane, culminating in a festive procession in Aït Melloul.
Agadir will mirror this vibrant energy, as Bilmawen takes on an even broader international dimension. The Canary Islands will be the honored guests of this 2026 edition, with a delegation comprising academics, experts, cultural troupes, and exhibitors, highlighting the historical and cultural ties that bind these two Amazigh territories. Organized by the Agadir Municipal Council as part of the 2022-2027 Action Plan, in partnership with several national and regional institutions, the carnival endeavors to solidify Agadir's status as the capital of Amazigh culture and an essential hub for performing arts.
The program will blend scientific research with contemporary creation through workshops on mask-making, introductory courses in the Tifinagh alphabet, comic contests, heritage exhibitions, and artistic presentations. An international symposium will also take place at the Sahara Cinema, focusing on the role of museums in preserving Bilmawen as intangible heritage.
Meanwhile, Ibn Zaidoun Garden will host a "Carnival Village" featuring pavilions and exhibitions, while Al Amal Square will resonate with musical evenings led by prominent figures in Amazigh music. The high point of the festivities will undoubtedly be the "March of Joy and Spectacle," where Mohammed V Avenue transforms into a vast open-air theater, showcasing traditional folkloric troupes alongside innovative creations from young artists hailing from various regions of the Kingdom and abroad, in a stunning explosion of colors, rhythms, and masks.
As reported by fr.le360.ma.
