Visiting Fes in May: Weather + Festivals + Things to Do

Is May a good time to visit Fes? In one word: “Yes!” It’s hard not to love spring in Fes, with blissfully mild-to-warm temperatures that are perfect for exploring. In May, there’s a hint of summer just around the corner as the mercury begins to climb. But it’s not yet unbearable being out in the middle of the day. 

Visiting Fes in May brings with it the added bonus of the Festival of World Sacred Music, an incredible celebration of spiritual music from around the globe. It’s a great reason for music lovers to head to Fes and discover this ancient city. In 2026, Eid al-Adha will also take place in May, adding another cultural event to the calendar.

That being said, accommodation prices can be high in Fes in May due to the increased demand. It pays to book early to secure the best riads.

With the influx of visitors come crowds at many of the city’s most popular attractions. You may need to plan your days strategically (ie. head out early in the morning) if you want a more tranquil experience. 

In this article, discover everything you need to know about visiting Fes in May, from the weather to crowds and special events. I’ll also share with you some of the best things to do in Fes in May to help you plan a seasonally suitable itinerary. 

Planning a longer Moroccan escape? Discover everything you need to know about travelling to Morocco in May here.

For more information about visiting this ancient, check out my Essential Travel Guide to Fes.

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Fes weather in May

The weather in Fes during May is typically really pleasant, with spring well and truly set in. Temperatures generally range from mild to warm, with daytime highs often reaching around 25 to 30°C (77 to 86°F).

The evenings can be cooler, dropping down to as low as 13°C (56°F). If you’re visiting Fes in May, I’d recommend bringing a light jacket or sweater for evening outings. 

Rainfall is relatively low in Fes during May. Although you can expect a few days of showers throughout the month (it’s worth bringing a light waterproof). The blooming flowers and greenery add to the charm of the city, creating a beautiful backdrop for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Is May a busy time in Fes?

With its idyllic spring weather and cultural festivities, May is usually a busy time in Fes. If you’re visiting Fes in May, you can expect to see an increase in foot traffic within the medina and at the most popular historical attractions, particularly during the Festival of World Sacred Music.

Due to the increased demand for accommodation, riad prices are usually slightly higher than in April. It’s a good idea to secure your preferred one well ahead of time. This is particularly true towards the end of the month when the festival leads to an influx of visitors to the city and the best riads in Fes get snapped up fast. 

What’s on in Fes in May

Festival of World Sacred Music

Established in 1994, this 10-day event has evolved into an international festival for honouring devotional music traditions. It draws artists from around the globe to the city of Fes and features a diverse lineup of performances. The program includes captivating Sufi chants, Quranic recitations and uplifting gospel music.

In addition to musical performances, the festival promotes meaningful conversations through artist talks and panel discussions. Ultimately, it creates an environment for deep connections centred around music, spirituality and the human experience.

Eid al-Adha

Eid al-Adha is a highly anticipated Islamic festival. In 2026, it will be celebrated from May 26 to 30 throughout cities, towns and villages in Morocco.

Families commemorate this occasion by sacrificing a sheep, reflecting on Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice his son Ishmael. Eid al-Adha is all about feasting, prayer and community events, making it a fantastic time to visit Fes if you’re into cultural immersion.

That being said, some businesses may close for a few days and activities/tours might be paused as locals spend time with their families and friends. In Morocco, Eid al-Adha is officially recognised as a two-day public holiday. This leads to the closure of banks, post offices and government offices.

While some shops and restaurants may shut down for up to five days, tourist-oriented businesses might only see closures for one day.

On the first morning of Eid, you can expect most places to be closed as locals attend prayers at the mosque and perform the sacrifice. Many businesses will reopen in the afternoon, particularly if they cater predominantly to tourists.

Establishments that sell alcohol usually close at least two days before the celebration and remain closed for two to three days afterward. However, most hotels will continue to operate their restaurants and bars as usual. So you can always find a meal or drink there.

Learn more about what to expect in this article: Travelling to Morocco During Eid al-Adha. 

Best things to do in Fes in May

With its glorious spring weather, May is an ideal time to discover Fes el-Bali. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is celebrated for its medieval architecture, colourful souks and traditional artisan workshops.

As you stroll through the streets, you’ll have the chance to see artisans crafting mosaics, hand-woven textiles and ceramics using age-old techniques.

The medina is also home to the University of Al-Quaraouiyine, the oldest continuously operating university in the world. While non-Muslims are not permitted inside, you can catch a glimpse of its ornate courtyard through one of the open doors.

If you’re visiting Fes in May, there are several beautifully preserved madrasas that are definitely worth adding to your itinerary. Al Attarine is one of my favourites!

Also not to miss is the Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Crafts. Here, you can marvel at ornately engraved doors and mashrabiya screens. The beautifully restored Dar Batha Museum of Islamic Arts is another highlight.

For a hands-on cultural experience, book in for a cooking class to learn the secrets of Fassi cuisine. Fes truly is one of the best places in Morocco to take a cooking class!

Palais Amani is especially famed for its cooking school (which boasts a spectacular rooftop setting). But there are also many family-run options available for a more traditional cooking experience.

If you need to escape the hustle and bustle of the medina, consider visiting the Bou Jeloud Garden. It really is at its best during the spring months. Located near Bab Boujloud, it features a series of winding paths lined with seasonal flower beds and gurgling fountains. 

Alternatively, you can venture further afield on a day trip to the Imperial city of Meknes (famed for its monumental gate) and the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis. Many Fes-Meknes day trips also include a stop in the sacred town of Moulay Idriss, which is an off-the-beaten-path gem.

If you’re visiting Fes in May 2026, you’ll have the chance to experience Eid al-Adha, which includes both acts of devotion and celebration.

The days leading up to the holiday are particularly lively in the markets as locals gather fresh produce for their festive meals. You can you experience a lot by simply being out and about!

On the first day of Eid, locals don their best djellabas and walk to the mosque to attend prayers. Then, they’ll head home to perform the sheep sacrifice.

While this practice may not appeal to everyone, it’s important to note that it is carried out with deep respect for the animal and every edible part of the sheep is utilised. 

Is May a good time to visit Fes?

Most people agree that the best months to visit Fes are from March to May and September to November. These periods coincide with the mild spring and autumn weather.

In May, you can expect warm but comfortable temperatures that are perfect for sightseeing, before the heat of the summer months sets in. 

May is also a wonderful time to visit Fes if you’re a music lover, with the Festival of World Sacred Music igniting the streets. While it does lead to an influx of people and put increased demand on the city’s hotels and riads, I think it’s well worth planning your itinerary around.

If you’re not interested in this event, then I’d recommend opting to visit Fes earlier in the month to avoid the crowds. 

About Me

I’m Malika, a global traveller who first visited Morocco in 2014 before marrying a local and settling down in a little village on the Atlantic coast. Over the years, I’ve developed an intense love for Morocco, its incredible landscapes, storied cities and the exceptionally generous hospitality of its people.

Malika in Morocco is a place to share my years of experience exploring the country, from north to south and from the Atlantic Ocean to the Sahara Desert. As a resource for travellers visiting Morocco, I want to encourage others to experience this captivating destination the way they desire, whether that’s independently or under the expert guidance of local tour operators.

I believe strongly in supporting responsible and sustainable tourism initiatives while inspiring travel experiences that are life-impacting and mutually beneficial for both travellers and locals.