The 14th edition of the Mata International Equestrian Festival has commenced in northern Morocco, bringing together local communities, international visitors, cultural enthusiasts, and equestrian teams in a celebration of heritage, tradition, and unity.
Day one of the festival featured a welcome reception for national and international guests, followed by the official opening of exhibition spaces showcasing regional products, traditional crafts, and the cultural richness of Morocco’s northern regions.
The opening ceremony includes remarks by Festival President Nabil Baraka and a keynote lecture focusing on the significance of October 31 as “Unity Day,” commemorating the historic United Nations vote recognising the Kingdom’s sovereignty over its Southern Provinces.
The day’s activities included the introduction of the Mata equestrian teams and the official launch of the festival’s renowned equestrian sporting events, which have become a symbol of Morocco’s enduring horse-riding traditions and cultural identity.
Organisers said the festival aims to preserve centuries-old traditions while promoting cultural exchange, tourism, and local economic development through one of the country’s most prominent cultural gatherings.
AFP
