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Christmas in Morocco: The Ultimate Guide to Marrakech in December

By Red City Craft | Travel & Lifestyle

Christmas in Morocco: The Ultimate Guide to Marrakech in December

By Red City Craft | Travel & Lifestyle

Is Morocco hot in December? Does it feel like Christmas? And crucially, what should I pack?

If you are trading a grey winter for the blue skies of Marrakech this year, you are in for a treat. Spending Christmas in Morocco is becoming one of the world's most popular festive escapes. The "Red City" transforms into a winter sun paradise, offering a unique blend of traditional culture and holiday luxury.

In this ultimate 2025 guide, we answer your biggest questions about the weather, the best galas for New Year's Eve in Marrakech, and the essential items you need to pack for a stylish holiday under the Moroccan sky.

Marrakech Weather in December: Sun vs. Chill

The most common question we get is: "Can I sunbathe on Christmas Day?" The answer is: Yes, but bring a jacket.

The December Forecast:

  • Daytime: Gloriously sunny with highs of 20°C (68°F). It feels like a beautiful spring day in Europe. You can absolutely enjoy lunch by the pool in a t-shirt.

  • Nighttime: As soon as the sun sets, the temperature drops sharply to 6°C - 8°C (43°F).

  • Rain: December sees occasional showers, but they are usually short. The Atlas Mountains will be covered in snow, creating a stunning backdrop to the palm trees.

💡 The Takeaway: You need a wardrobe that works for two seasons in one day.

What to Pack for Christmas in Morocco

Forget the ugly Christmas sweater. Marrakech in December is all about "Winter Bohemian" elegance.

1. The Day Look: Layers are Key

For exploring the Souks or visiting the Majorelle Garden, you need breathable layers that you can peel off at noon.

  • For Her: A Gandoura worn over jeans is the perfect city-walking outfit.

  • For Him: A light linen shirt and a scarf.

2. The Evening Look: Velvet & Warmth

This is where most travelers make a mistake. Riad courtyards are open-air and can get very chilly at night.

  • The Essential: You need a Velvet Caftan or a Wool Selham Cape.

  • Why: Velvet is the fabric of Moroccan royalty. It is thick, warm, and incredibly chic for Christmas dinner. A velvet cape looks stunning thrown over a western dress for New Year's Eve.

👉 Shop Our Velvet Winter Collection on Etsy Stay warm and stylish with authentic Moroccan velvet.

Christmas Celebrations: What to Expect

The medina of Marrakech is a treasure trove for holiday gift shopping. From handwoven rugs to artisan pottery, intricate jewelry, and fragrant spices, you’ll find one-of-a-kind presents for loved ones baa

Since Morocco is a Muslim country, Christmas is not a public holiday, and the streets won't be covered in Santa decorations. However, Marrakech loves a celebration.

  • In the Medina: Life goes on as normal (which is refreshing!). You can shop for rugs and spices without the commercial chaos.

  • In the Hotels: Luxury hotels like La Mamounia and The Royal Mansour go all out with massive Christmas trees, lights, and chocolate displays.

  • Christmas Dinner: Most Riads and restaurants offer a special "Gala Dinner" on December 24th and 25th. Expect a fusion of Turkey and Tagine, often accompanied by Gnaoua music.

ck home. During the season, the souks often have a livelier atmosphere, with shopkeepers eager to share their holiday spirit.

Top 5 Things to Do in Marrakech in December

1. New Year's Eve in the Desert

The Vibe: Stargazing & Drums. Skip the crowded clubs and head to the Agafay Desert for a New Year's Eve you will never forget. Imagine a candlelit dinner in a luxury tent, Berber drumming around a campfire, and fireworks lighting up the silent desert sky.

2. Shopping for Unique Gifts

The Vibe: The Ultimate Santa's Workshop. The Souks are the best place in the world to finish your Christmas shopping.

3. A Warm Hammam Ritual

The Vibe: Winter Detox. When the air is crisp outside, nothing beats the steam of a traditional Hammam. Scrub away the year's stress with Black Soap and Eucalyptus.

4. Hike the Snowy Atlas Mountains

The Vibe: Winter Wonderland. Just 90 minutes from Marrakech, Oukaïmeden offers snow! You can ride a mule through snowy Berber villages in the morning and be back in the sunny city for tea by the afternoon.

5. Sunset Tea on a Rooftop

The Vibe: Golden Hour Magic. December sunsets in Marrakech are legendary—the sky turns a fiery pink and purple. Grab a spot at El Fenn or Café des Épices at 5:00 PM.

  • Style Tip: Wrap up in a Hand-Woven Wool Cape to watch the sunset in comfort.

1

Is everything open on Christmas Day?

Yes! Shops, souks, museums, and restaurants are fully open. It is a normal business day in Morocco.

2

Do they serve alcohol?

Yes. Licensed restaurants, hotels, and bars serve alcohol. However, it is not sold in supermarkets or near mosques.

3

Is it safe?

Marrakech is very safe for tourists, especially during the busy holiday season. There is a high police presence to ensure security for the influx of visitors.

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