For some, Passover celebrations start and end with the seder.
For Jews of Moroccan descent, the festival concludes on a high note with a celebration called Mimouna, which begins at nightfall at the close of Passover.
Mimouna is thought to have begun centuries ago in Fez, Morocco. Today, it has become a jubilant musical celebration increasingly popular with Jews of all backgrounds.
Traditionally, people sing and dance, visit one another’s homes, exchange greetings and receive blessings from the head of each household. And of course, it’s the first chance to consume hametz-y treats that cannot be eaten during Passover.
We’ve rounded up Mimouna events around the Bay Area that feature music, dance and traditional Moroccan sweets.
Upcoming events
Thursday | April 9
A Taste of Morocco: Post-Passover Mimouna — The Jewish Connection celebrates with Moroccan pastries, tea and mufletas, or crepe-like pancakes. S.F. location provided the day ahead of the event. 7:30-10:30 p.m. $32.
San Jose Mimouna Celebration — The Bay Area Jewish Coalition hosts a celebration with music and home-cooked Moroccan sweets and mufletas. At a private home in San Jose. 8:45 p.m. Free.
Belmont Mimouna Celebration — Moroccan sweets, music and dancing with the Bay Area Jewish Coalition. Belmont address provided with registration. 7 p.m. Free.
Friday | April 10
Shabbat Mimouna in Marin — Celebrate with Moroccan foods, Sephardic-Mizrachi songs by Rachel Valfer of the Qadim Ensemble and “She’erit,” an installation by artist Chama Metchaly. At Osher Marin JCC, 200 North San Pedro Road, San Rafael. 4-5:15 p.m. Free.
Saturday | April 11
Mimouna: A Moroccan Jewish Celebration — Enjoy Moroccan treats, a live DJ and dance performance. Presented by JCC of San Francisco and JIMENA. At JCCSF, 3200 California St. 7-10 p.m. $36.