Marked within the expansive Sahara Desert is a remarkable occasion known as the Taragalte Festival. This festival is akin to an oasis of culture amidst the vast, arid desert landscape. Here, people from various nomadic tribes converge to share and celebrate their unique traditions and rich history. The Taragalte Festival is a captivating tapestry of cultural expression that offers a profound insight into the lives of those who call the desert their home.
Origin and History of the Taragalte Festival
The Taragalte Festival got its name from a place called M’hamid El Ghizlane, also known as “Taragalte.” It began as a way for desert nomads to celebrate their culture and unite their community. Over time, it has become a popular event that draws people from near and far.
Initially, the festival aimed to honour the traditions of desert nomads and create a sense of togetherness. As years passed, it gained more attention and became a significant event. Now, it attracts locals and people from distant places who come to experience the rich culture of the Sahara. The Taragalte Festival bridges ancient traditions and the modern world, connecting people from different backgrounds and showcasing the beauty of the desert’s heritage.
Celebration and Activities at Taragalte Festival
This festival lasts for three days and offers a unique experience.
1. Music and Dancing: The heart of Taragalte is its music. People play traditional desert songs using instruments like the guembri and the bendir. These tunes come with exciting dance performances that tell stories about desert life.
2. Cultural Workshops: You can join workshops to learn about the skills and crafts of the Sahara. This includes making rugs jewellery, and cooking traditional desert food.
3. Nomadic Poetry: Poetry is an essential part of Sahrawi culture. Poets share their stories about desert life, survival, and the beauty of the natural world.
4. Camel Racing: A unique part of the festival is camel racing. Camels have been essential to desert life for a long time, and this race honours their importance.
5. Campfire Chats: People gather around campfires for talks and conversations under the starry desert sky. This is a relaxed way to learn about the culture, struggles, and dreams of the Sahrawi people.
Significance and Community Building at Taragalte Festival
The Taragalte Festival goes beyond being a mere spectacle; it serves as a vital link connecting the nomadic communities of the Sahara with the global community. This unique event creates a space where diverse cultures converge, fostering greater understanding and appreciation among people from all walks of life. It’s a platform for cultural exchange where attendees can learn about and embrace the Sahara’s nomadic way of life, breaking down barriers that often separate communities.
Moreover, the Taragalte Festival champions the cause of gender equality and supports local women. It emphasizes the importance of empowering women in the Sahara region, acknowledging their invaluable contributions to the community. This commitment to gender equality is a part of the festival’s mission and a reflection of the evolving values that aim to promote fairness and inclusivity in all aspects of life in the Sahara.
Taragalte Festival’s 12th Edition 2023
The Taragalte Festival is back for its 12th edition, and this time, it’s all about “The Wisdom of Sands and Oases, a Source of Inspiration and Alchemy.” This cultural event will take place from October 27 to 29, 2023, under the starry skies of M’hamid El Ghizlane, nestled amidst the dunes in the province of Zagora, near the Oasis of M’Hamid El Ghizlane in the southern part of Morocco. It’s near the historical starting point of ancient caravans that journeyed from M’Hamid El Ghizlane to Timbuktu.
Detailed Program for Pack Stars of Taragalte Festival
Friday, October 27, 2023: Day 1
On the festival’s first day, attendees will embark on a 7-hour minibus journey from Marrakech to M’Hamid Festival Taragalte.
Departures from two locations in Marrakech are available – one near the Koutoubia (Jamaa El Fenna Square) at 8:00 AM and the other at La Grande Poste (Guéliz) at 8:30 AM.
The journey takes you through the stunning High Atlas, providing breathtaking views as you continue to Ouarzazate. There will be a lunch stop along the way. You’ll then head to Zagora, descending through the Drâa Valley, flanked by beautiful kasbahs and a vast palm grove, Morocco’s most significant date producer. Your arrival in M’Hamid village in the afternoon will be greeted by the festival’s reception office, where you can set up your camp (bivouac) and receive your “Festival Access and Activities” bracelets. The festival site opens at 5:00 PM, followed by dinner and a musical evening dedicated to the cultural caravan for peace, per the artistic program.
Please note that the Taragalte Festival’s reception and information desk will be at the entrance of the festival site.
Saturday and Sunday, October 28/29, 2023: Days 2 & 3
These two days are dedicated to the festival, featuring concerts, songs, dances, poetry, exhibitions, workshops, and debates. It’s a chance to immerse yourself in the vibrant celebrations of nomadic culture in the Moroccan desert of M’Hamid El Ghizlane.
Monday, October 30, 2023: Day 4
On the fourth day, you’ll embark on a minibus journey from M’Hamid to Agdz and then to Ait Ben Haddou. The day starts with a morning visit to the old village of M’Hamid, followed by a visit to the Tamgroute Village to explore its Quranic library and the renowned Tamgroute pottery workshop. The journey continues to Agdz, where you’ll have lunch while admiring the Ksours along the Oasis route. Later, you’ll traverse the entire Drâa Valley road, witnessing the beauty of Aït Ben Haddou at sunset. This site boasts a magnificent Kasbah and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The day concludes with dinner and an overnight stay in a hotel in Ait Ben Haddou.
Tuesday, October 31, 2023: Day 5
The fifth day marks your journey back to Marrakech after breakfast. You’ll pass through the Ounila Valley, visiting the Telouet Kasbah. A lunch break in the Atlas Mountains allows one to savour the landscape. Your arrival in Marrakech is expected in the early afternoon.
Detailed Program for Pack Village of Taragalte Festival: 3 days
Friday, October 27, 2023: Day 1
Arrive independently in the village of M’Hamid, where the festival’s reception office will be ready to welcome you and guide you to set up your camp (bivouac) and provide you with your “Festival Access and Activities” bracelets. The festival site opens at 5:00 PM, followed by dinner and a musical evening dedicated to the cultural caravan for peace, in line with the artistic program. The festival’s reception and information desk will be located at the entrance of the festival site.
Saturday and Sunday, October 28/29, 2023: Days 2 & 3
These two days are dedicated to the festival, featuring concerts, songs, dances, poetry, exhibitions, workshops, and debates. It’s a chance to immerse yourself in the vibrant celebrations of nomadic culture in the Moroccan desert of M’Hamid El Ghizlane.
Get your pass tickets from here: http://buy.tidar.ma/event/taragalte-festival-2023