In brief
The Amazigh community, an indigenous group in North Africa, is celebrating the new year 2976 according to their ancient calendar. Yennayer, occurring between January 12-14, is marked by family gatherings, feasting, and traditional music and attire. This year’s festivities showcase their resilience, as Amazigh culture has gained global recognition despite historical marginalization. Countries like Morocco and Algeria now honor Yennayer as an official public holiday, emphasizing the community's celebration of renewal and connection with nature.
Across North Africa, the Amazigh people have come together to usher in the year 2976, following a calendar that dates back to 950 BC. Celebrated as Yennayer, this New Year begins between January 12 and 14, and families across Algeria, Morocco, Tunisia, and Libya engage in grand feasts, bonfires, and traditional music. Vibrant clothing and festive sounds fill the villages as they greet one another with 'aseggas ameggaz,' meaning happy new year.The Amazigh, known as 'free people,' are the region's original inhabitants, and their population is significant, with Algeria and Morocco housing the largest communities. Yennayer is a time for family connection, celebrating renewal and the Amazigh people's bond with nature.Traditions vary by region, with dishes like 'ourkemen' from Morocco and 'trèze' enjoyed in Algeria. Beyond family dinners, communal celebrations take the form of parades and concerts, highlighting the Amazigh's vibrant cultural expressions. Throughout history, however, the Amazigh community faced marginalized recognition. In recent years, there have been strides towards acknowledging their culture, with Morocco recognizing the Amazigh language and Yennayer now celebrated as an official holiday in both Morocco and Algeria. As they celebrate Yennayer, the Amazigh people commemorate not just their New Year, but also their enduring identity and victories over centuries of struggles.
