Youth Day in Morocco
Morocco marks Youth Day on August 21 as a national public holiday. The date is also the birthday of King Mohammed VI, and the occasion highlights the place of young people in the country’s civic and social life.[1][2][3]
A Moroccan national holiday
The Ministry of the Digital Transition and Administrative Reform lists Youth Day among the national holidays set by decree for state administrations, territorial authorities, public establishments and concessionary services. Its official schedule assigns the holiday one day on August 21.[1]
Morocco’s government portal also lists August 21 as Youth Day in its national holidays calendar. The calendar places it one day after the Anniversary of the Revolution of the King and the People, observed on August 20.[2]
Origins and meaning
A royal address published by the Moroccan government says King Mohammed V established Youth Day in 1956 and chose the birthday of his son, then Crown Prince Hassan II, as its date. The date later moved to August 21, King Mohammed VI’s birthday.[3][4] The address describes the occasion as a chance to meet younger generations, hear the issues they face and encourage their participation in society and national development.[3]
Official coverage presents the holiday as a recurring moment to recognize young people’s contribution and consider ways to strengthen their political, economic and social participation. The birthday connection remains part of its meaning: the Moroccan government’s account identifies Youth Day with King Mohammed VI’s birthday.[4]
How the day is observed
The holiday is marked with speeches, recognition of youth and discussion of opportunities in areas such as education, work and participation. There is no single nationwide programme of concerts, sports competitions, meals or other customs, so these should not be assumed to take place everywhere.[3][4]
Closures and practical planning
State administrations and territorial authorities suspend work for the national holidays on the ministry’s list, which includes Youth Day. Check with banks, schools, private shops, tourist sites and public transport operators before making plans.[1]
Youth Day in Morocco: common questions
When is Youth Day in Morocco?
Is Youth Day a public day off?
It is a listed national holiday, and work in state administrations and territorial authorities is suspended for listed national holidays.[1]
Do all businesses close?
Shops and services set their own hours, so check directly with the businesses you plan to use.
Does the holiday move if August 21 falls on a weekend?
It is listed on August 21. Check government announcements for any changes to public-service schedules.[1]
Sources and references
Sources used for Youth Day in Morocco:
- Horaires de travail et jours fériés- Ministry of the Digital Transition and Administrative Reform
- Calendrier des fêtes nationales et religieuses- Maroc.ma, Ministry of Youth, Culture and Communication
- النص الكامل لخطاب جلالة الملك بمناسبة ذكرى ثورة الملك والشعب وعيد الشباب- Maroc.ma
- عيد الشباب.. الاحتفاء بالالتزام الملكي الراسخ تجاه الشباب، المحرك الحقيقي لمغرب صاعد- Maroc.ma