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Christmas in Egypt

Christmas in Egypt is one of the most culturally unique and spiritually meaningful experiences you can have during the winter holiday season. Whether you’re looking for a religious journey, a warm-weather escape from the cold, or a festive way to enjoy ancient wonders, Egypt delivers a memorable December getaway.

While many travelers are familiar with the traditional celebrations in Europe or the West, spending Christmas in Egypt introduces you to different customs, historical richness, and welcoming hospitality.

When is Christmas Celebrated in Egypt?

In Egypt, Christmas is officially celebrated on January 7th by the Coptic Orthodox Church, which follows the Julian calendar. This marks a key difference from the Western celebration on December 25th. As a result, travelers visiting during late December through the first week of January can enjoy an extended holiday season, with both global and local traditions.

Hotels, resorts, and restaurants often host Western-style Christmas events on December 24th and 25th, while Egyptian churches and Christian communities gear up for major religious observances leading up to January 7th.

Coptic Christmas Traditions

The majority of Christians in Egypt are Coptic Orthodox, and their Christmas traditions blend spirituality, ancient customs, and communal togetherness. In the weeks before Christmas, many Copts observe a fasting period called the Nativity Fast, abstaining from meat, poultry, and dairy.

On Christmas Eve (January 6th), Coptic Christians attend midnight mass, especially in prominent churches such as the Saint Mark’s Cathedral in Cairo or historic churches in Old Cairo. Churches are decorated with lights, candles, and icons, creating a powerful atmosphere of reverence and beauty.

After the service, families break the fast with a special meal that often includes dishes like fatta (a meat and rice dish with garlic and vinegar sauce) and a variety of traditional Egyptian sweets.

Where to Celebrate Christmas in Egypt

1- Cairo

Cairo is a central hub for both Western and Coptic celebrations. Five-star hotels and international restaurants organize themed dinners, music events, and even Christmas markets. The historic Coptic Cairo district is particularly significant for those interested in religious tourism. Here, travelers can visit ancient churches like the Hanging Church or the Church of St. Sergius and Bacchus, believed to have sheltered the Holy Family during their flight to Egypt.

Luxury hotels along the Nile, such as the Four Seasons or Kempinski, typically host glamorous Christmas Eve and Christmas Day dinners complete with live entertainment, festive décor, and special menus.

2- Alexandria

Alexandria’s coastal charm offers a slightly different ambiance. Known for its cosmopolitan culture, the city celebrates Christmas in its own stylish way. The city’s cathedrals, such as Saint Mark’s Coptic Cathedral, play a central role in Coptic Christmas services. Meanwhile, seafront hotels light up with decorations, and shopping malls host Santa Claus meet-and-greets and musical events.

3- Luxor and Aswan

These cities are ideal for travelers looking to combine cultural discovery with Christmas festivities. Many Nile cruises running between Luxor and Aswan include Christmas-themed parties on board, with traditional music, buffets, and even small gift exchanges. Imagine toasting Christmas Eve while sailing the Nile beside temples thousands of years old.

Hotels in the area, especially those catering to international tourists, organize special holiday menus and entertainment, offering both Western-style Christmas and Egyptian hospitality.

4- Red Sea Resorts (Sharm El Sheikh, Hurghada, Marsa Alam)

For a sun-filled Christmas, Red Sea resorts are a top choice. With daily temperatures averaging 22–26°C (72–79°F) in December, these destinations offer the perfect escape from cold weather. Hotels and resorts go all out with Christmas trees, lights, beachside parties, and festive meals.

Diving centers often host underwater Santa sightings or holiday dives, adding a playful twist for adventure-seekers. It’s also a great time for family vacations, with kids’ clubs and resort activities tailored to the holiday season.

Religious Tourism and Holy Sites

Christmas time is ideal for religious travelers looking to connect with Christianity’s roots in Egypt. Sites such as:

• Saint Catherine’s Monastery in Sinai (near the biblical Mount Sinai)
• The Holy Family Trail that traces Jesus, Mary, and Joseph’s journey in Egypt
• The Monastery of St. Anthony and St. Paul in the Eastern Desert

These places draw spiritual visitors and offer unique experiences that blend biblical history with natural beauty.

Guided religious tours are popular during this season, and many local travel agencies offer custom itineraries that include transport, accommodation, and expert interpretation.

Weather During Christmas Season

Egypt experiences mild and pleasant weather during December and early January, making it a fantastic destination for winter holidays. Average temperatures range from 18–24°C (64–75°F) in Cairo and Upper Egypt, while Red Sea destinations remain warmer.

Rain is rare, though Alexandria and the northern coast may experience occasional showers. Desert nights can be cool, especially if you’re taking early morning tours or visiting the White Desert, so layering clothing is recommended.

What to Pack for Christmas in Egypt

• Light sweaters or jackets for evenings
• Comfortable walking shoes for sightseeing
• Dressy outfit for Christmas Eve or festive dinners
• Modest attire for visiting religious sites
• Swimsuits and sunscreen if heading to the Red Sea

Packing gifts or holiday decorations is optional, but many hotels and resorts provide ample holiday ambiance.

Christmas Food in Egypt

In addition to traditional Coptic dishes like fatta, many hotels and restaurants serve Western-style Christmas meals. Expect to find roast turkey, mashed potatoes, and festive desserts on menus designed for tourists.

For those exploring local cuisine, don’t miss seasonal sweets like kahk (Egyptian cookies often filled with dates or nuts), basbousa, and roz bel laban (Egyptian rice pudding).

How Egyptians Celebrate Western Christmas (December 25th)

While January 7th is the official religious holiday, December 25th is also celebrated in a more commercial and secular way in Egypt’s urban areas. Malls, cafes, and hotels decorate their spaces, and stores often hold holiday sales.

International schools and expatriate communities celebrate Christmas on the 25th, and travelers will find familiar traditions like Christmas trees, carols, and gift-giving in areas popular with tourists.

Booking Tips for Christmas Travel

• December is peak season in Egypt, especially in resort areas and major cities. Flights and accommodations fill quickly, so early booking is essential.
• For a more immersive experience, book tours that include cultural or religious events.
• Private guided tours help you avoid crowds and customize your experience.
• If planning to attend a Coptic Christmas mass, arrive early and dress modestly.

Events and Activities for Families

Egypt offers plenty for families traveling over Christmas:

• Desert safaris and camel rides
• Felucca boat rides on the Nile
• Light and Sound Shows at Karnak and Giza
• Christmas movie nights and kids’ parties in resorts
• Local crafts shopping at Christmas markets in Cairo and Sharm El Sheikh

These activities provide a festive backdrop while also educating kids about history and different cultures.

Why Choose Egypt for Christmas?

• Unique blend of Christian tradition and ancient culture
• Warm winter weather
• Affordable luxury compared to Europe or the U.S.
• Religious and historical significance
• Welcoming hospitality from locals
• Flexible travel options from adventure to relaxation

How to Make the Most of Your Christmas Trip

To truly enjoy Christmas in Egypt, choose your destinations according to your travel goals:

• Want history and culture? Prioritize Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan
• Looking for relaxation? Head to the Red Sea
• Interested in spirituality? Book a Holy Family Trail or monastery tour

Combining multiple cities through a tailor-made itinerary is highly recommended for seeing the best of Egypt during the festive season.

Christmas in Egypt blends ancient roots with modern celebration. Whether you’re attending a midnight mass in a historic church, diving with Santa in the Red Sea, or sailing the Nile under twinkling lights, your holiday season will be unforgettable.

By understanding how Egyptians observe Christmas—both Coptic and Western—you can plan a trip that is culturally rich, warm, joyful, and spiritually rewarding.

Let our Egypt-based travel specialists design the perfect Christmas itinerary for you. From luxury Nile cruises and desert escapes to festive Red Sea retreats and cultural tours, we handle every detail. Contact us today to begin planning a magical Christmas in Egypt—spaces fill fast, so book early to secure your preferred experience.