Horseback show keeps Morocco tradition alive

SUMMARY

Thousands of visitors descend on the Moroccan coastal city of El Jadida each July to attend the largest equestrian show in the kingdom — a breathtaking horseback performance that combines synchronized riding with decorative guns. The competitive event is known as Tabourida, or La'ab Al-Baroud, "The Game of Powder." The display mimics and pays tribute to military parades performed by Arab and Berber tribes since the 15th century.

By APAug 4, 2019 12:30:12 PM IST (Updated)

People watch as horse riders wait for their turn to take part in an equestrian show known as Fantasia or Tabourida, in the coastal town of El Jadida, Morocco. The competitive event is known as Tabourida, or La'ab Al-Baroud, "The Game of Powder." Famed French artist Eugene Delacroix popularized Tabourida on canvas in the 19th century, dubbing it "Fantasia," and the name has stuck. (AP Photo/Mosa'ab Elshamy)

A troupe is engulfed by smoke after firing their rifles during Tabourida, a traditional horse riding show also known as Fantasia, in the coastal town of El Jadida, Morocco. (AP Photo/Mosa'ab Elshamy)

A troupe charges and fire their rifles during Tabourida. (AP Photo/Mosa'ab Elshamy)

People watch as a rider takes part in Tabourida in the coastal town of El Jadida, Morocco. (AP Photo/Mosa'ab Elshamy)

A troupe charges and fires their rifles during Tabourida in the coastal town of El Jadida, Morocco. (AP Photo/Mosa'ab Elshamy)

Thousands of visitors descend on the Moroccan coastal city of El Jadida each July to attend the largest equestrian show in the kingdom _ a breathtaking horseback performance that combines synchronized riding with decorative guns. (AP Photo/Mosa'ab Elshamy)

A horse rider prepares to exit after his troupe took part in Tabourida. (AP Photo/Mosa'ab Elshamy)

A female troupe prepares to take part in Tabourida, a traditional horse riding show also known as Fantasia. (AP Photo/Mosa'ab Elshamy)

A troupe charges holding their rifles before firing, during Tabourida. (AP Photo/Mosa'ab Elshamy)