Thousands attend one of Morocco's oldest festivals

Thousands gathered recently in Mansouria, a small town south of the capital Rabat, to attend one of the oldest festivals in Morocco. (Photo: AP)

In this Thursday, Aug. 17, 2017 photo, a troupe charges and hold their rifles before firing, during Tabourida, a traditional horse riding show also known as Fantasia, in Mansouria, near Casablanca, Morocco. Historical wartime attacks of Berber are the inspiration behind the event. (Photo: AP)

Nineteen horse troupes came from different parts of the kingdom to celebrate a three-day event that blends courage, skill and tradition. There are many fantasia groups in each region of the country. (Photo: AP)

In this Thursday, Aug. 17, 2017 photo, a troupe charges and hold their rifles as other line up for their turn during Tabourida, a traditional horse riding show also known as Fantasia, in Mansouria, near Casablanca, Morocco. These horses are well bred and groomed. The event is opened with a colourful procession. (Photo: AP)

In this Thursday, Aug. 17, 2017 photo, crowds gather to attend and judge the Tabourida, a traditional horse riding show also known as Fantasia, in Mansouria, near Casablanca, Morocco. The event displays the connection between man and horse. (Photo: AP)

In this Thursday, Aug. 17, 2017 photo, a troupe charges and fire their rifles during Tabourida, a traditional horse riding show also known as Fantasia, in Mansouria, near Casablanca, Morocco. (Photo: AP)

In this Thursday, Aug. 17, 2017 photo, a troupe charges and hold their rifles before firing, during Tabourida, a traditional horse riding show also known as Fantasia, in Mansouria, near Casablanca, Morocco. (Photo: AP)

In this Thursday, Aug. 17, 2017 photo, a horseman is surrounded by gunpowder smoke after a successful charge while taking part in Tabourida, a traditional horse riding show also known as Fantasia, in Mansouria, near Casablanca, Morocco. (Photo: AP)