Tangier’s event calendar is thinner than Marrakech’s, but the city hosts several significant cultural festivals rooted in its literary and musical heritage. The Tanjazz festival and the International Film Festival are the headline annual events.
Tangier Events and Festivals Calendar
Tanjazz Festival – September, 4 Days
Tanjazz is Tangier’s premier music festival, held over 4 days in September at the Palais des Institutions Italiennes and outdoor stages around the city. The festival programs international jazz alongside Gnawa, flamenco, and fusion acts reflecting Tangier’s crossroads identity. Day tickets cost approximately 150-200 MAD. The 2023 edition featured 30+ acts across 5 stages. Buy tickets through the official Tanjazz website. The September timing coincides with Tangier’s best weather month.
Tangier International Film Festival (Festival National du Film) – March (Biennial or Annual)
The Tangier National Film Festival is Morocco’s primary domestic film event, held at the Cinema Rif and other venues across the city. The festival screens Moroccan feature films and documentaries in competition. Most screenings are in Arabic or French with subtitles. Tickets cost 30-50 MAD per screening. Dates are announced 6-8 weeks ahead. The Cinema Rif on the Grand Socco is the main venue.
Moussem of Sidi Bouabid – August, 3 Days
The Moussem (religious festival) of Sidi Bouabid takes place in the village of the same name 15km south of Tangier. The festival blends Sufi religious ceremonies with a traditional market, horse riding displays (fantasia), and music. It’s a local rather than tourist event. If attending, dress modestly and ask permission before photographing participants.
Ramadan in Tangier
Ramadan (dates shift approximately 11 days earlier each year) transforms Tangier’s daily rhythm. Restaurants close during daylight hours, though some tourist-facing cafes in the ville nouvelle remain open discreetly. The medina becomes quiet until about 17:00 when the pre-iftar food rush begins. The evening meal (ftour) typically starts with harira soup, dates, and chebakia (honey-soaked sesame cookies). The atmosphere after sunset is festive with families gathering in the Grand Socco. Non-Muslims are not expected to fast but should avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours out of respect.
