Mimouna came about as a way to celebrate the end of Passover, its significance as freedom from slavery and the return of chametz to the daily diet of North African Jews. It is a very large community event, as it is marked with meals shared between entire families and extended networks of friends. Traditionally, Jewish holidays have a clearly marked end, and often the end is marked with a celebratory meal. Because Passover always occurs in the spring, it has also taken on significance as a way to welcome the springtime.
Mimouna is definitely connected to the environment in some ways! Because it is a springtime holiday, people incorporate the use of mint and other fresh herbs to symbolize the coming of spring and new blossoms. In the spirit of a more local environment, Mimouna is a holiday that is always shared with the community. This is signified through open doors and open invitations to friends and even strangers to share the meal with the host family.
