Marrakesh folk arts festival opens

The 37th Marrakesh festival of folk arts opened in Marrakesh on Friday, highlighting the richness of popular arts typical of the country's various regions.

The 37th edition novelty lies in the awarding of the symbolic palm to the best band after a contest between five regional art genres. In addition to concerts held at the prestigious Badia palace, the festival features parades in the city avenues.

Troops from Hungary, Turkey, Greece and France will also perform in Marrakesh.

Founded 41 years ago, the festival was resumed in 1999. It will crown with a gala called "make hope" to raise funds for the struggle against AIDS.