Anniversary of the Revolution of the King and the People in Morocco

A national holiday on August 20

Morocco’s Ministry of Digital Transition and Administrative Reform lists August 20 as a one-day public holiday. It says work in state administrations and local authorities is suspended on the kingdom’s national and religious holidays.[1]

The holiday’s date is fixed on August 20 in Morocco’s official list of national holidays. The public administration ministry places it between the anniversary of the recovery of Oued Ed-Dahab on August 14 and Youth Day on August 21.[2][1]

The meaning of the revolution

The commemoration is specific to Morocco because it centers on the bond between the throne and the people during the country’s struggle for independence. In a speech marking the anniversary, King Mohammed VI described the 1953 event as a moment when Mohammed V, Hassan II and the Moroccan people were united in their resolve, and linked it to the values of patriotism, sacrifice, solidarity and loyalty.[3]

A later royal address described the purpose of the August 20 event as liberating the homeland and securing its independence. It also connected the annual commemoration with collective mobilization and mutual loyalty.[4]

How the day is commemorated

Royal addresses to the nation have been delivered on the occasion of the anniversary. Official records of speeches from 2019 and 2020 show how the commemoration is used to recall the historical struggle and its values; they do not establish a single set of public ceremonies or customs observed everywhere in Morocco.[3][4]

The commemoration recalls the 1953 event involving Mohammed V, Hassan II and the Moroccan people.[3]

What to expect on the day

State administrations and local authorities suspend work for national and religious holidays, including this one. Check with individual banks, shops or transport operators before making plans.