If you're in or near Marrakech, Morocco during July this year, don't miss the Arts festival. You'll see the whole city come alive; this is when Marrakech is at it's most frenzied and intense. Enjoy this popular art festival in the north of Africa.

It's a mass sensory overload. There are craftsmen, artists, street musicians, vendors, dancers and fire-swallowers in every part of the city. The already packed streets start to overflow with tourists and local Moroccans all out to have a good time. The centre of all the action is normally in the Badi Palace - a 16th century ruin, once the heart of the Saadian Dynasty.

One event not to be missed is the 'Fantasia' - a spectacular stunt horse riding spectacle and one of the most popular events. It's held every evening in a field near the Bab Jdid, just outside the city walls.

Marrakech Popular arts festival 2006
Venue: Various, but mainly Badi Palace and Djemma el Fna
Date: 3-10 July 2006, (to be confirmed)


For more information contact the Moroccan Tourist office...