Egypt, a land steeped in history and brimming with cultural richness, offers a unique experience for every traveler. Egyptian culture and tradition are at the core of Egyptian society. From ancient monuments to modern celebrations, Egypt seamlessly blends its heritage with contemporary life. Egypt is known for having more celebrations than most countries. If you are wondering, what holidays does Egypt celebrate, then you have come to the right place to get all the information you need.
Wealth isn't all about her monuments and treasures but about her culture and people. Across a history of more than 4500 years, Egypt was able to evolve as an advanced intelligent civilization that learned how to innovate and fuse the culture & traditions of other nations, both allies, and invaders, into one being in order to build the ideal liberal society composed of multiple ancient cultures and ethnic tradition that we're able to survive till our current modern day.
Also, Egypt has embraced a liberal mentality due to its diverse cultural landscape and history. The religious atmosphere of the city is very diverse and is embedded in most of the aspects of social life in Egypt. Islam is the official religion of Egypt, with 90% of the entire population being Sunni Muslim and 10% being Coptic.
The goal of this article is to provide every traveler with all the information and skills needed to fully understand the culture and traditions of Egypt. Egypt is like a magical cooking pot mixing all the incredible ideas and customs of ancient domestic and foreign lands into one majestic meal which provides a sense of warmth to every tourist who steps inside one of its cities.
Religious Festivals: Spiritual Celebrations Uniting Communities
Religion has always been a powerful force in shaping the mentality of ancient Egyptians as most of the famous constructions, such as the Karnak Temple Complex, Valley of the Kings, the Giza Pyramids Complex, and more, were all for winning the grace of the gods.
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Eid al-Fitr: Marking the End of Ramadan
Eid al-Fitr, celebrated at the conclusion of Ramadan, is a time of joy, feasting, and charity. For Muslims, eid al fitr is a time for families, friends, and even neighbors to come together for feasting on traditional food and for conversation. Young children are also typically given gifts. Families gather to share meals, exchange gifts, and extend goodwill to those in need. The streets come alive with decorations, and the air is filled with the aroma of traditional sweets like kahk. In a nutshell, eid al fitr is a time of celebration for Muslims throughout the entire Egyptian population.
Eid al-Adha: Commemorating Faith and Sacrifice
Eid al-Adha honors the willingness of Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son in obedience to God. This year (2024), Eid al-Adha will run from June 16th to June 20th. Egyptians observe this festival with communal prayers, the ritual sacrifice of animals, and the distribution of meat to the less fortunate. Eid al-Adha is all about bringing people together, including family and friends. Meat is eaten for breakfast, lunch and supper.
Coptic Christmas: A Christian Celebration on January 7
Celebrated by Egypt's Coptic Christian community, Coptic Christmas on January 7 is a day of religious observance and family gatherings. Churches hold midnight masses, and families enjoy traditional dishes, reinforcing the bonds of faith and kinship. Egypt is home to roughly 10 million Christians, most of who belong to the Coptic Orthodox Church of Alexandria. Coptic Christians celebrate Coptic Christmas on the 7th and 8th of January.
One of the biggest differences between the different Christmases, is the fact that only the Coptic Christmas dates are public holidays. Another big difference is the fact that Coptic Christians take part in what is known as the “Holy Nativity Fast” which lasts from the 25th of November to the 6th of January. During this period, Coptic Christians are required to abstain from eating any meat or any animal other based products, including things like eggs and dairy.
Other Orthodox Christians in the country celebrate Christmas on the 25th of December, as is common in most western countries that adhere to the Gregorian calendar.
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National Holidays: Honoring Egypt's Modern History
As strange as it may seem for a lot of people, Egypt actually has two Revolution Days each year.
Revolution Day: Commemorating the 1952 Uprising
Observed on July 23, Revolution Day marks the 1952 military coup that led to the establishment of the modern Egyptian republic. The second Revolution Day occurs on the 23rd of July each year. This commemorates the day that Egypt achieved full independence in 1952, following a coup which was led by General Muhammad Naguib. July 23rd Revolution Day is also known as the Egypt National Day. The first one occurs on the 25th of January, which coincidentally, is also National Police Day.
Celebrations typically include televised concerts, military parades, street celebrations, and an address from the country’s president.
Sinai Liberation Day: Celebrating the Return of Sinai
April 25 commemorates the final withdrawal of Israeli forces from the Sinai Peninsula in 1982. Sinai Liberation Day is an official holiday that is celebrated on the 25th of April each year to commemorate the liberation of the Sinai Peninsula following the complete withdrawal of all Israeli forces. Egyptians celebrate with parades, cultural events, and reflections on national sovereignty.
If Labor Day happens to fall on a weekday, then the holiday may be moved to a slightly later date that falls on a weekend so that people can enjoy an extended weekend. There are actually two official holidays in May, with the first one being Labor Day which has historically been celebrated on the 1st of May each year.
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Ancient Traditions: Echoes of Egypt's Pharaonic Past
Sham El-Nessim: Welcoming Spring with Ancient Roots
Sham El-Nessim, meaning "smelling the breeze," is a spring festival with origins in ancient Egypt. As with all the holidays that have been discussed in this post already, Sham Ennessim is another one of Egypt’s non-working days. Celebrated on the Monday following Coptic Easter, families picnic in parks, enjoying traditional foods like salted fish, green onions, and lettuce.
Most Egyptians like to celebrate this day by spending the whole day outside enjoying a picnic in public gardens, at any green space, or even on the Nile River. A much loved traditional meal which is eaten on this day includes fesikh which is a type of fish that has been fermented, salted and dried. Sham Ennessim another April holiday that is a celebration of the arrival of spring in Egypt, and it is celebrated on the 6th of May each year.
Abu Simbel Sun Festival: Aligning with the Sun
Twice a year, in February and October, the sun illuminates the inner sanctum of the Abu Simbel temple, highlighting statues of Ramses II and the gods.
Abu Simbel Sun Festival | Amazing Place & Event
If you are still wondering what holidays does Egypt celebrate, well, Egypt also has an Armed Forces Day on the 6th of October each year. This national holiday commemorates an event in 1973 which saw Egyptian and Syrian forces launch a surprise attack on Israel which allowed them to cross over onto the Sinai Peninsula. Every year on Armed Forces Day, the military stage a number of events and street parades. Patriotic shows and songs are also broadcast on televisions.
Cultural Practices: Everyday Traditions Reflecting Egyptian Identity
Hospitality: A Cornerstone of Egyptian Culture
Egyptians are renowned for their hospitality, often inviting guests to share meals and conversations. The Egyptian people are known for being very hospitable and extremely generous, which is one of the main features of Egypt. They are very kind and helpful and have a loving nature that treats any stranger as if he were a member of his own family and is fully ready to welcome him into their home. This tradition, deeply ingrained in society, reflects the value placed on community and generosity.
Ozomet Marakbiya: The Art of Polite Invitation
This custom involves extending an invitation out of politeness, without the expectation of acceptance. One of the many customs in Egyptian society is "3ozomet Marakbiya" which is a tradition that is when someone invites you for food or drinks, but they don’t really mean it the moment it is said. The meaning behind this expression can be traced to two people, each in a boat not that far from the other, and then one of the two invites the other for food or drinks or anything else. Rooted in social etiquette, it exemplifies the nuances of Egyptian interpersonal relationships. Marakbiya originates from the Arabic word "Markb" which means "Boat". It is a very common request among Egyptians, who say it on countless occasions.
Egyptian Cuisine
Egyptian cuisine has a long history that reflects a blend of ingredients from the Nile Valley and Delta, which rely heavily on poultry, legumes, vegetables, and fruits. Staple dishes like rice-stuffed veggies, grape leaves, ful medames (mashed fava beans), falafel, kosher (lentils and pasta), kebab, kofta, shawarma, and molokhia (bush okra stew) are popular. Eish baladi is a local type of pita bread, which is a dietary mainstay, and Domiati cheese that dates back to ancient Egypt and remains widely consumed.
Egyptian cuisine relies heavily on vegetables and legumes, with spices like cumin, coriander, chili, and cinnamon lending flavor. Egyptian cuisines balance legumes and vegetables with meats like squab, chicken, lamb, and occasionally beef, often used for grilling. Offal, including foie gras, serves as fast food and delicacies, with seafood prevalent in coastal areas. Vegetarian options are abundant due to historical meat prices and the dietary requirements of the Coptic Christian community. Tea is Egypt's national drink, which can be taken many times across the day and through all the coffee and tea houses.
Desserts like Basbousa, baqlawa, and kunafa incorporate honey, dates, and almonds. Spices like cumin, coriander, cardamom, and chili are central to Egyptian cooking, influenced by the historical spice trade via Red Sea ports. Fasting periods influence food practices as Ramadan brings specific desserts and traditions like karkadeh that hold a significant cultural place, while coffee, juices, and cold beverages have their roles in the culinary scene.
Egyptian Clothing
Because of the rich culture of Egypt, Egyptian clothing has varied in many different shapes, forms, and colors. During the history of ancient Egypt, traditional clothing could be seen across temples, walls, and tombs, wearing loincloths or skirts and long shirts, while women wore wrapped dresses or sheaths. Both genders adorned themselves with jewelry and makeup. Footwear was made of papyrus or leather, though being barefoot didn't always signify poverty.
In modern times, the traditional Egyptian dress for men features the Gallibaya, which is often paired with trousers and a headdress, while women wear layered, loose clothing and head coverings. The Gallibaya is a baggy long shirt that is a staple for both genders, with men's being simpler and women's more colorful & decorated. The Hijab is also a common head coverage that is popular in all Islamic countries, which is only worn by women if they choose to. Different regions and seasons influence the fabric and layering of clothing.
Bedouin women typically wear black embroidered dresses, and married women wear a black cloth around their forehead. The Nubians of Egypt had their own clothing and traditions. Nubian men wore white robes or linen skirts, while women wore layered black dresses over colorful garments. Their relocation and cultural identity set them apart. Dressing conservatively is recommended, especially for women, covering shoulders and knees. Loose-fitting clothing in fabrics like linen and cotton is ideal for the hot weather.
Dating and Marriage Culture
The culture of Egypt towards dating and marriage is straightforward as it seeks to create a holy union that will strengthen and advance the entire society of Egypt. Dating isn't widely practiced in Egypt, although in urban areas, some Egyptians, influenced by Western values, are changing their attitudes. The concept of "Purity", especially concerning women, holds significant importance in marriage arrangements.
Families arranged marriages with minimal input from the couple. Individuals have more say in their marriage choices, but family involvement and the use of matchmakers still play a role. Marriages often happen within similar age groups, education levels, social classes, and religious backgrounds. Egyptian weddings maintain deep-rooted traditions stemming from ancient times. The marriage agreement involves the "mahr" (a groom's payment to the bride's family) and "shabka" (jewelry for the bride). The engagement period allows the couple time to bond, often celebrated with elaborate decorations.
Symbolic wedding rings trace their significance back to Ancient Egypt, thus representing eternity. Preceding the ceremony is the Henna night, an adorned celebration for the bride with female relatives and friends, featuring themed attire. Christian ceremonies take place in churches, while Muslims have the "Katb el Katb" performed by a Maa’zoun in a mosque or at home, where contractual terms like "Moa’khar" (divorce settlement) are included. The celebration involves cutting a multi-layered cake, the bride tossing her bouquet, and indulging in "Sharbat" a sweet drink made from fruits and herbs.
Folk Culture
Egypt's folk culture is a rich creation of centuries of traditions, customs, and beliefs which is constructed of a wide array of practices, including music, dance, storytelling, cuisine, and festivals that are deeply rooted in the country's history and heritage. Music and dance hold a prominent place in Egyptian folk culture where traditional instruments like the oud, tabla, and flute accompany various dance forms, such as the lively and rhythmic "Tanoura" dance or the elegant "Raqs Baladi" (belly dance), each telling stories and reflecting different aspects of Egyptian life. The art of ancient Egyptian Storytelling has been a cherished tradition, passing down myths, legends, and moral tales through generations.
The cuisine is a significant part of folk culture, with dishes like "Koshari", "Ful Medames", "Shawarama", and "Ta'meya" showcasing a blend of flavors and influences from ancient Egyptian, Mediterranean, and Middle Eastern cuisines. Festivals and celebrations play a pivotal role in marking religious occasions, agricultural events, or commemorating historical moments. "Moulid" celebrations honoring saints, "Sham el-Nessim" marking the arrival of spring, and "Eid al-Fitr" and "Eid al-Adha" are deeply ingrained in the cultural fabric.
Death Culture
Egypt's death culture reflects a blend of ancient beliefs, religious traditions, and contemporary practices. Despite modern influences, many aspects of mourning, burial, and commemoration remain deeply rooted in cultural and religious significance, providing comfort and support to grieving families. The ancient Egyptians had a unique relationship with death that impacted their entire life as around 2800 BC, they focused on the afterlife and began constructing elaborate pyramids and tombs to ensure safe passage for their pharaohs and their royal subjects.
They believed in eternal life for the spirit, the "Ka" which required careful preparations called the opening of the mouth and the mummification process to sustain the Ka in the afterlife. They buried people with items necessary for their spirit's journey, like food, clothes, and weapons. Egyptians have maintained a perspective that life extends beyond death. With the rise of Christianity, there was a shift from preparing the body for eternity to focusing on the soul. Devout Christians abandoned material possessions and adopted ascetic lifestyles. Ancient temples were repurposed for monastic life.
Later, Islam arrived in Egypt, leading to a blending of traditions. Most Egyptians are Muslim, believing in judgment based on deeds but also trusting in God's mercy. Islam forbids embalming and extravagant burial monuments, but historical leaders found ways to incorporate their burial sites into community establishments like mosques, schools, or hospitals. Upon death in Islam, the body is ritually washed, shrouded in white cloth, and prepared for burial. Islamic tradition emphasizes a swift burial, ideally within 24 hours of death. Cemeteries, such as Cairo City of the Dead, hold significant cultural and religious importance.
Mourning lasts for 40 days, during which family and friends gather to offer condolences, recite prayers, and support the bereaved. Families often commemorate the deceased on anniversaries through prayers, charitable acts, or gatherings.
Egyptian Christmas Traditions
Egyptian Christmas traditions have been rooted in ancient Egyptian customs for ages, where palm trees were used to symbolize the year's end at the winter solstice, similar to our Christmas tree tradition. The day also coincided with the birthdays of Egyptian sun deities. Despite being a predominantly Muslim country, Egypt embraces the Christmas spirit, providing a range of activities for tourists. Cruises along the Nile, visits to famous sites, shopping in Egypt, and enjoying local cuisine contribute to a memorable holiday experience.
Coptic Christmas on January 7th was also celebrated during the sacred month of Kiahk, which involved special liturgies every Saturday and a 43-day vegan fast before Christmas. Traditional celebrations include church decorations, a midnight service on Christmas Eve, and a special meal called Fata with a sweet traditional treat called Kahk. Tourists often celebrate Christmas and New Year in Egypt at the Red Sea resorts of Hurghada, Marsa Alam, and Sharm El Sheikh. Hotels host festive events with decorations, dinners, and entertainment. The country’s landmarks, like the pyramids and temples in Luxor, become focal points for celebrations.
December in Egypt offers mild temperatures, making it a favorable time to explore the historical and cultural cities of Cairo, Luxor, and Hurghada. Modern Egyptian culture is a blend of ancient traditions and contemporary influences. It's characterized by a mix of Islamic, Arabic, and Western elements. Egypt's political culture is marked by a delicate balance between tradition and change, characterized by power struggles, social movements, and ongoing debates about governance, rights, and the role of the state. Football is a significant part of Egyptian culture, with a passionate fan base. There's a noticeable contrast between urban and rural lifestyles. Globalization has introduced Western elements into Egyptian culture, especially in urban centers. Islam is a cornerstone of modern Egyptian culture, influencing daily life, societal norms, and governance.
While traditional dishes remain popular, there's a fusion of traditional and international cuisines, especially in urban areas. Egypt is an awesome place filled with miracles & wonders on every corner, and behind every word is an ancient tale that can be traced to thousands of years ago. The finest vacation can always be found in the embrace of one of the kindest and most hospitable places on earth, Egypt.
See below for a list of public holidays in Egypt:
| Holiday | Date | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Coptic Christmas | January 7 | Celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ by the Coptic Orthodox Church. |
| Revolution and National Police Day | January 25 | Commemorates the 2011 Revolution. |
| Sinai Liberation Day | April 25 | Celebrates the withdrawal of Israeli troops from the Sinai Peninsula in 1982. |
| Labor Day | May 1 | Celebration of workers and their contributions to society. |
| Sham El-Nessim | Monday after Coptic Easter | Ancient spring festival celebrated with picnics and traditional foods. |
| Eid al-Fitr | Varies according to the Islamic calendar | Three-day festival marking the end of Ramadan. |
| Eid al-Adha | Varies according to the Islamic calendar | Four-day Islamic celebration commemorating Abraham's willingness to sacrifice his son. |
| June 30 Revolution | June 30 | Commemorates the 2013 Egyptian revolution. |
| The July 23 Revolution Day | July 23 | Celebrates the Egyptian Revolution of 1952. |
| Islamic New Year (El Hijra) | Varies according to the Islamic calendar | Celebration of the start of the Islamic year. |
| Prophet Muhammad's Birthday (Mawlid an-Nabi) | Varies according to the Islamic calendar | Celebration of the birth of the Prophet Muhammad. |
| Armed Forces Day | October 6 | Celebrates Egypt's military forces. |
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