December 4, 2023
In the heart of Morocco, the mere mention of “Hob Al Moulouk,” the cherished term for cherry, unveils a story beyond a mere fruit—a tale of beauty and nutritional opulence. Morocco, a luminary in cherry production, annually gifts the world seven thousand and four tons of these vibrant red jewels. As the earth completes its yearly bounty, the town of Sefrou becomes the enchanted stage for the Festival of Royal Love, or “Mehragan Hob Al Moulouk,” emerging as a cultural and tourist spectacle of grandeur within the Moroccan tapestry.
Tracing its roots to 1919 during the French colonial era, this festival has evolved into Morocco’s crowning cultural jewel, earning UNESCO’s recognition as an intangible cultural heritage. Fondly dubbed the “City of Cherries,” Sefrou metamorphoses into a mesmerizing canvas, capturing the essence of “Little Jerusalem” among the Jewish community and earning the poetic title of the “Garden of the West” from the French.
In the waning days of June, a harmonious convergence with the cherry harvest crescendos into the Festival of Royal Love, a three-day celebration dedicated to the cherries that grace Morocco’s landscape. These days unfold as a lyrical tribute to the nation’s agricultural wealth.
Sefrou, bedecked in vibrant hues, unfurls its streets adorned with flowers, hosting processions that meander through the city’s illuminated avenues. The air pulsates with traditional music, Amazigh songs, and the rhythmic beats of the sword dance, creating an enchanting ambiance. However, the pinnacle arrives with the selection of the Cherry Queen, a regal figure chosen from nine resplendently attired contestants in traditional Moroccan garb. The queen, accompanied by her entourage, graces the streets in a procession, generously distributing cherries and flowers. The coronation ceremony culminates with placing a golden crown upon the queen’s head, symbolizing the delicate yet regal nature of the cherries.
The Festival of Royal Love transcends the mere appreciation of cherries; it blossoms into a multidimensional celebration captivating locals and tourists alike. Evenings are alight with the artistic prowess of local performers and groups, showcasing traditional music and dance. Equestrian events cater to sports enthusiasts, while cultural and entertainment activities span generations. Craft exhibitions unveil handmade and traditional treasures, offering a glimpse into Morocco’s rich heritage.
In essence, the Festival of Royal Love harmonizes the allure of cherries with the grandeur of Moroccan culture, beckoning both locals and global wanderers to the enchanting embrace of Sefrou. tainability. The festival is a source of pride and belonging that enhances the city’s and its people’s self-esteem and constitutes a fundamental contribution to their local identity.