You look to the right and see strange people wearing unusual clothes made of goat skins, dancing in one corner. Others wear odd masks while playing. You turn to the left and spot clowns jumping around, and women in beautiful Amazigh dresses singing here and there. You still don’t fully grasp where you are or if you’re dreaming. Don’t worry, calm down—you are in Boujloud, also known as the Boujloud Carnival, which takes place every year in the city of Agadir.
The Arrival of Boujloud Carnival
Every year, as Eid al-Adha approaches, the streets of Agadir transform into a joyful, celebratory scene. Known as the Boujloud Carnival, this event brings excitement and fun to locals and visitors alike. The name “Boujloud” comes from the Amazigh word for “skin” (jild), as participants traditionally wear costumes made from goat skins during the festival. Despite the high cost, sometimes exceeding 1,000 Moroccan dirhams, people eagerly buy these costumes to take part in the celebrations.
A Festival for All, Regardless of Wealth
In Agadir, even if you cannot afford a sacrificial ram for Eid al-Adha, you will still feel the festive spirit. Joy and celebrations fill the entire city, from wealthy neighborhoods to those less fortunate. People across all classes and backgrounds come together, making Eid al-Adha in Agadir one of the most memorable and inclusive holidays.
Week-Long Celebrations Full of Fun and Security
The Boujloud Carnival goes beyond the traditional three days of Eid al-Adha, continuing for an entire week. Throughout this time, festivalgoers can enjoy the activities and feel safe, thanks to strong security measures. Any attempt to disrupt the event is swiftly handled by the police and Royal Gendarmerie. By midnight each day, the streets are cleaned, and the celebrations pause until the next day.
Boujloud’s Resilience Through Time
For ten years, Boujloud Carnival has been a vital part of Agadir’s culture. Although the festival paused briefly during the COVID-19 pandemic, it has since returned with even more energy, bringing joy to the city once again.
The Fascinating Costumes of Boujloud
One of the most captivating aspects of Boujloud Carnival is the variety of costumes people wear. Some dress in elegant traditional Amazigh attire from the Souss region, while others don goat skins with masks or face paint. You’ll also spot participants in clown costumes and more, adding to the festive atmosphere.
If you see someone dressed in goat skin chasing a child through the streets, spraying water as they go, don’t be alarmed—you’re witnessing the heart of Boujloud Carnival. This celebration in Agadir is a vibrant, unique tradition that brings joy and cultural pride to all who participate.