Christmas in Egypt is celebrated by the Christian community, which constitutes a minority in the predominantly Muslim country. The Coptic Orthodox Church, which follows the Julian calendar, celebrates Christmas on January 7th.
Religious Observances: Christmas is primarily a religious celebration in Egypt. Coptic Christians attend special liturgical services at their churches. The Christmas Eve service, called the “Midnight Mass,” is a significant event where the birth of Jesus Christ is commemorated. The services are accompanied by prayers, hymns, and readings from the Bible.
Fasting Period: Before Christmas, Coptic Christians observe a 43-day period of fasting called the “Holy Nativity Fast” or “Advent.” During this time, they abstain from consuming animal products, including meat, dairy, and fish. The fast is broken after the Christmas Eve service with a festive meal.
Decorations: Churches and homes are adorned with festive decorations. Christmas trees, adorned with lights, ornaments, and tinsel, are a common sight. The decorations often feature stars, angels, and crosses. Some people also decorate their homes with nativity scenes depicting the birth of Jesus.
Traditional Food: Christmas in Egypt is associated with special traditional dishes. One popular dish is “fata,” a casserole made with rice, bread, and lamb or beef. Another traditional sweet treat is “kahk,” which are small, buttery cookies stuffed with dates, nuts, or sweetened ground sesame. These cookies are often shaped into intricate designs and are shared with family, friends, and neighbors.
Gift Giving: Similar to other parts of the world, gift giving is a common practice during Christmas in Egypt. Families exchange gifts, and children often receive presents from Santa Claus, known as Baba Noel in Egypt. Churches and charitable organizations also distribute gifts and food to the less fortunate.
Celebrations in Public Spaces: In some areas, particularly in Cairo and Alexandria, there may be Christmas decorations and lights in public spaces. Shopping malls, hotels, and restaurants often have festive displays, and some organize special events, concerts, or performances during the holiday season.
Christmas in Egypt can also be a unique and enjoyable experience for tourists visiting the country during the holiday season. Here’s some information about Christmas celebrations in Egypt that may be of interest to tourists:
Festive Atmosphere: Tourist areas, such as Cairo, Luxor, and Sharm El Sheikh, often embrace the holiday spirit and decorate their streets, hotels, and shopping centers with Christmas lights, ornaments, and decorations. This creates a festive atmosphere that visitors can enjoy while exploring the local attractions.
Cultural Experiences: Tourists have the opportunity to witness and participate in Coptic Christmas traditions by attending the Christmas Eve services at Coptic Orthodox churches. These services are often open to the public, allowing visitors to witness the beautiful liturgical rituals and experience the spiritual significance of the holiday.
Christmas Tours and Activities: Many tour operators offer special Christmas-themed tours and activities. These may include visits to Coptic churches, guided tours of historic Christian sites, or Nile River cruises that showcase the country’s rich cultural heritage. Tourists can engage in these activities to gain a deeper understanding of Christmas in Egypt and its historical and religious significance.
Festive Dining: Hotels, restaurants, and resorts catering to tourists often offer special Christmas menus and dining experiences. Visitors can enjoy traditional Egyptian cuisine, as well as international dishes, while celebrating the holiday. Some establishments may also provide live music and entertainment to enhance the festive ambiance.
Shopping for Souvenirs: Christmas time in Egypt offers an opportunity for tourists to shop for unique souvenirs and gifts. Local markets and bazaars are filled with handicrafts, jewelry, textiles, and other traditional items that can make for memorable presents. Visitors can explore these markets to find special Christmas gifts while immersing themselves in the vibrant local culture.
Warm Weather Activities: One of the advantages of celebrating Christmas in Egypt is the pleasant weather, especially in coastal areas like Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada. Tourists can enjoy outdoor activities such as swimming, snorkeling, diving, or simply relaxing on the beautiful beaches, making it a unique blend of Christmas celebrations and a beach vacation.
Christmas Travel Package of Egypt
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