According to the bible, the parents of Jesus Christ fled to Egypt shortly after he was born. Many Egyptians remember this story as evidence of how welcoming the Egyptian people are. Over the years, tourists have enjoyed memorable Christmas in Egypt and New Year seasons even though the country has a predominantly Muslim population.

Egypt is an excellent country with picturesque destinations and vibrant people. Visitors come all year round to enjoy special events and activities designed for the most pleasant memories. Surprisingly, one of the most popular festivals in Egypt is Christmas. 

During the Christmas season, Major cities such as Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan are adorned with beautiful Christmas decorations. Another factor that makes Christmas in Egypt evident is the festive buffets and a vast array of local entertainment. Egyptians are known to appreciate Christmas and join in the celebration even though it is not exactly a part of their custom.      

If you are looking to learn about the Christmas and New Year celebrations in Egypt, then you are in the right place. This article is a detailed look at Christmas in Egypt and the end-of-the-year festivities.

A Slight Twist To Christmas

Many don’t know that a substantial Christian population has been in Egypt for over 2000 years. They are known as Coptic Christians and are part of the Eastern Orthodox Christian faith. Coptic Christians number up to 9 million in Egypt (this is about 10% of the country’s population). They are also known as the "Copts," and they have a solid organizational structure with a pope.  

According to the Julian calendar (which is most commonly used), Christmas falls on the 25th day of December. However, Coptic Christians follow a different schedule. For them, Christmas falls on the 29th day of the Month of Koaik- which is the 7th day in January. Therefore, if you have plans to celebrate authentic Christmas in Egypt, then you need to plan accordingly.

Apart from the fun experience, Coptic Christians have certain Christmas traditions. In the weeks before Christmas, they abstain from milk, eggs, and meat. This fast is said to be an essential spiritual practice in the buildup to Christmas.

Christmas is incomplete without a visit to the church to witness the full experience. It also provides an excellent opportunity to see opulent interior and exterior designs. You will come across some of the oldest and most beautiful churches spread through the streets, of Cairo, and other major cities.  
A nighttime vigil was also held on the eve of Coptic Christmas Day (the 6th day of January).

This service occurs in several cathedrals all over the country. One of the largest of these gatherings occurs in St. Mark's Cathedral, where the Coptic pope joins in the celebration. Afterward, people gather for feasts with friends and family. The Christmas season is often characterized by traditional Christmas foods (A soup called ‘fata’ is a great example), relaxing, celebrating, and exchanging gifts.

Check out Our Nile Cruises 2024 During Christmas & New Year.

Nile cruises are one of the most remarkable activities for tourists during Christmas in Egypt. It often ranks top on everyone’s bucket list of things to do in Egypt. This is why they are always fully booked during the Christmas season. The Nile cruise is a different experience during Christmas; with local entertainment, music, and abundant food, you can enjoy luxurious cruises during the yuletide. 

Also, several parties are organized to celebrate Christmas in Egypt with several fun activities. The cruise cabins and housekeeping help you sail across the Nile in premium comfort. While sailing, you can pay attention to the colorful streets for a bunch of events and catch amazing views of the end-of-the-year celebrations.
During Christmas and New Year, Nile Cruises also specializes in onboard festivities. With plentiful food laid elegantly in a festival-themed setting, you are bound to fall in love with Egyptian delicacies during the Nile cruise.

A VISIT TO ST. CATHERINE'S MONASTERY

What’s a Christmas in Egypt vacation without a visit to St. Catherine’s Monastery?
Located in the Sinai Peninsula, St Catherine’s Monastery (also known as the Sacred Monastery of the God-trodden Mount Sinai) is one of the most famous historic Christian sites in Egypt. It was built in the 6th Century by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian and remains in operation to date.

What if I am not a Christian? 

Well, you are welcome to visit the Monastery as long as you keep in mind that it is an ancient spiritual site. There is a certain level of respect that is owed to the Monastery, you need to pay attention to this and follow the rules. You also need to arrange your travel with the opening hours in mind. The Monastery is closed on Fridays, Sundays, and the days of holy feasts like Christmas, New Year, and Easter, to name a few.

If you are up for a hike, then you can visit the neighboring Mount Sinai (Where the Bible described the place where the Ten Commandments were written). You can either take a climb through the “steps of penitence” or go through a broader and more leisurely path. Notably, there is a small chapel at the apex of the mountain.

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CONCLUSION

What makes Christmas in Egypt special?

Is it the food, decorations, and other festivities that characterize this tradition?  
Or
The fireworks, colorful attires, and the burst of happiness wherever you turn? 

Christmas holiday travel hits differently because it provides an opportunity for you to enjoy a unique Christmas experience. Countries across the world are beautifully adorned with the colors green and red to celebrate. Therefore, traveling with the family for Christmas every once in a while is not a bad idea.

There are several destinations where you can enjoy Christmas in Egypt and New Year celebrations. Egypt is no exception, as it is home to wonderful cultural and traditional experiences. If you have always wanted to visit Egypt, then this holiday season is an excellent time for that.

You can make preparations to enjoy the festivities from now until mid-January. Whether you are interested in Christian culture or not, it is a great way to enjoy unique perceptions and experiences with great people.  

By the way, ‘Merry Christmas’ in Egyptian is translated to “Eid Milad Majid."
 

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FAQs:

1- When is Christmas celebrated in Egypt?

Christmas in Egypt is celebrated on two different dates. While some observe it on December 25th, Coptic Christians (about 10% of the population) celebrate Christmas on January 7th, following the Julian calendar.

2- Are Christmas celebrations common in Egypt despite being a predominantly Muslim country?

Yes, Christmas celebrations are quite popular in Egypt. Major cities like Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan are adorned with beautiful Christmas decorations, and many Egyptians join in the festivities regardless of their religious background.

3- What are some unique Christmas traditions in Egypt?

Coptic Christians observe a fasting period in the weeks leading up to Christmas, abstaining from milk, eggs, and meat. On Christmas Eve (January 6th), many attend a nighttime vigil in churches across the country.

4- Can tourists participate in Christmas celebrations in Egypt?

Absolutely! Tourists can enjoy festive buffets, local entertainment, and beautifully decorated cities. Many hotels and cruises offer special Christmas and New Year packages for visitors.

5- Are Nile cruises available during the Christmas and New Year period?

Yes, Nile cruises are very popular during this time. They often feature special onboard festivities, themed decorations, and holiday menus. However, it's advisable to book well in advance as they tend to fill up quickly.

6- Are shops and tourist attractions open during the Christmas and New Year period?

Most shops, restaurants, and tourist attractions remain open during this period. In fact, many offer special holiday promotions and events.

7- Is it advisable to book a trip to Egypt during the Christmas and New Year season?

Yes, it can be a wonderful time to visit Egypt. However, as it's a popular period for tourism, it's recommended to book accommodations, tours, and Nile cruises well in advance to ensure availability.

8- How is New Year's Eve celebrated in Egypt?

New Year's Eve is celebrated with great enthusiasm in Egypt. Major cities host fireworks displays, and hotels and restaurants organize gala dinners and parties to welcome the New Year.

9- How is New Year's Eve celebrated in Egypt?

New Year's Eve is celebrated with great enthusiasm in Egypt. Major cities host fireworks displays, and hotels and restaurants organize gala dinners and parties to welcome the New Year.

10- What traditional Christmas foods are eaten in Egypt?

One traditional Christmas dish in Egypt is 'fata', a special soup enjoyed during festive gatherings. Various other local delicacies are also prepared for Christmas feasts.