Cairo: SiltaNews – News Desk
Egypt’s holiday season begins in mid-December and extends into early January, blending cultural festivities with religious observances. The season opens around December 19–20 with concerts, winter markets, and public events in Cairo and Alexandria, marking the start of a festive atmosphere. Western Christmas on December 25 is celebrated socially in hotels, restaurants, and expatriate communities, though it is not a national holiday. Streets and shopping centers are decorated with lights and Christmas trees, creating a vibrant seasonal mood.
New Year’s Eve on December 31 is one of the most widely celebrated nights in Egypt, featuring fireworks, Nile cruises, and large gatherings in urban centers. The week that follows, often referred to as the “Fifth Quarter,” is a period of family gatherings, church services, and traditional meals, leading up to Coptic Christmas. On January 7, Egypt observes Coptic Christmas as a national holiday, with midnight masses, festive meals, and community events marking the culmination of the season.
Throughout this period, temperatures range between 10–20°C, with cooler evenings. Tourist destinations along the Red Sea and Nile offer special packages for Christmas and New Year, while local traditions emphasize resilience, family unity, and spiritual reflection. The holiday season in Egypt is thus a blend of cultural celebration and religious observance, reflecting both global influences and deep-rooted local traditions.