Annual Events & Festivals
Major Celebrations:
- Ramadan (Dates vary - Islamic calendar): The holy month of fasting. Special atmosphere with festive evening iftar meals, decorations, and extended evening hours for shops and cafes. Expect limited daytime dining options but vibrant nightlife.
- Eid al-Fitr (End of Ramadan): Three-day celebration with family gatherings, gift-giving, special foods. Many businesses close; festive atmosphere citywide.
- Eid al-Adha (Festival of Sacrifice): Four-day Islamic holiday. Expect closures and family-focused celebrations.
- Coptic Christmas (January 7): Egyptian Orthodox Christians celebrate with midnight masses at churches throughout Cairo, especially in Coptic Cairo.
- Sham el-Nessim (Spring Festival - Monday after Coptic Easter): Ancient Egyptian spring festival celebrated by all Egyptians with outdoor picnics, eating salted fish (fesikh), and family outings.
- Cairo International Film Festival (November): Major film festival showcasing Egyptian and international cinema.
- Abu Simbel Sun Festival (February 22 & October 22): While in Aswan (not Cairo), many Cairo-based tourists visit Abu Simbel when sunlight illuminates the temple's inner sanctuary.
National Holidays:
- Revolution Day (January 25): Commemorates 2011 uprising
- Sinai Liberation Day (April 25): Celebrates return of Sinai Peninsula
- Labor Day (May 1)
- Revolution Day (July 23): 1952 revolution commemoration
- Armed Forces Day (October 6)
Note: Government offices, banks, and some businesses close on national holidays and Islamic holidays. Tourist sites remain open but may have modified hours.