Happy Amazigh New Year (Yennayer) – Yennayer 2026 in Morocco
We wish everyone a happy Amazigh New Year, also known as Yennayer.
On January 14, 2026, the Amazigh New Year is celebrated in Morocco and across North Africa. Amazigh families welcome the new year by sharing a festive meal and spending time with relatives and friends.
A traditional dish prepared for Yennayer is called tagola, made from wheat and honey. The ingredients symbolise prosperity, fertility and a good harvest for the year ahead.
According to the Amazigh calendar, the year 2976 begins. A calendar that reflects thousands of years of history and connection with nature.
The Amazigh calendar
The Amazigh calendar is based on seasons and agriculture. Its origin is traditionally linked to the victory of the Amazigh king Chachnaq (Shoshenq I) and marks the start of an agricultural cycle rather than a religious event.
What makes Amazigh culture unique is the coexistence of different calendars, scripts and languages. In daily life, Amazigh people move effortlessly between the Gregorian calendar, the Islamic calendar and the Amazigh calendar, while using Tamazight, Arabic and Latin scripts.
How to wish a happy Amazigh New Year in Tamazight
To wish someone a happy Amazigh New Year in Tamazight, you can say: Aseggas Ameggaz. This greeting is widely used during Yennayer celebrations.
Hassan (who is Amazigh himself) is happy to share more about Amazigh culture, traditions and daily life during your journey through Morocco.
For now, we wish you a wonderful Amazigh New Year. Aseggas Ameggaz.
Frequently asked questions about Yennayer
What is Yennayer?
Yennayer is the Amazigh New Year. It marks the beginning of the agricultural year and is celebrated by Amazigh communities in Morocco and across North Africa.
When is Yennayer celebrated?
Yennayer is traditionally celebrated around 12 to 14 January each year. In 2026, Yennayer is observed on or around 14 January, depending on local traditions.
How is Yennayer celebrated in Morocco?
In Morocco, Yennayer is usually celebrated within families and local communities. People gather to share traditional food, spend time together and reflect on the year ahead. The celebration is cultural rather than religious.
Is Yennayer a public holiday in Morocco?
Yennayer is recognised as an important cultural celebration. Whether it is observed as a public holiday can vary, but it is widely respected and celebrated, especially in Amazigh regions.
How do you say Happy Amazigh New Year?
To wish someone a happy Amazigh New Year in Tamazight, you can say: Aseggas Ameggaz.
Fascinating history, really enjoyed this, Hassan.
The tour with you was full of so much incredible history and cultural background information. Like taking the best course ever. And so much fun.
Good to hear 🙂
Assegas amagas du Canada 2075