7 Best Festivals & Events in Egypt in 2025
Egypt, a land shaped by the Nile and rich in ancient history, has many unique festivals. Some, like the Abu Simbel Sun Festival, are tied to ancient traditions, while others, such as Ramadan and Eid, are rooted in Islamic culture. When taking an Egypt tour, experiencing these festivals is a great way to get to know the country. Here are the 7 best Egypt festivals and events to experience in 2025.
Festival Celebrations in Egyptf
Ramadan, Feb 28 - Mar 29, 2025
Speaking of the longest festival in Egypt, it has to be Ramadan, a Muslim holiday celebrated all over the world.
If you visit Egypt during Ramadan, expect most restaurants to be closed during the day, but the nights come alive with food and celebrations. This is because Muslims will fast from sunrise to sunset, focusing on spiritual reflection. And after sunset, the streets light up, and people enjoy festive meals together.
You can choose an open-air restaurant to enjoy both sumptuous dishes and a charming night. Traditional dishes like Mahshi (stuffed vegetables) and Rokak (stuffed pastry with meat) are popular. If you want to taste the local flavor, it's recommended to try them.
Eid Al-Fitr, Mar 30-31, 2025
Eid al-Fitr Festival in Egypt, marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan. People gather with their families to pray and enjoy delicious food.
One of the most popular traditions during Eid is baking and sharing traditional treats. Kahak, a sweet pastry filled with dates, is a must-try. Fata, a rice dish with crispy bread and meat, is another favorite. You'll also find plenty of Egyptian barbecue on the streets.
It's like Ramadan in that most shops are closed during the day and busiest at night. Markets and shops will be packed with people buying Kahak at the start of Eid al-Fitr. Shopping with the locals is a lot of fun. Additionally, there will be many promotional stores where you can enjoy many discounts.
In the last two days, you can expect lively activities. Parties are held almost everywhere, such as restaurants, cafes, parks, etc. Beautiful festive lanterns light up every street, and local performers will display interesting folktales. If you like, you can join parties and have musical fun together.
Sham En-Nessim, Arp 21, 2025
Sham En Nessim, meaning "the festival to inhale the breeze," dates back to around 2700 BCE. This festival welcomes the arrival of spring, when the Nile's banks are lined with green plants and blooming flowers.
This Egypt festival makes the city come alive. Crowds gather by the Nile, in parks, or at the beach. Elderly people relax under date palms, while younger folks enjoy games like cricket or take photos. Street performances fill the air with the sounds of drums, cheers, and laughter.
A unique tradition during Sham En Nessim is egg painting. People decorate eggs with bright patterns, hang them on trees or place them in front of homes, and make wishes for good fortune. Another custom is egg tapping, where people knock eggs together, believing that the one whose egg doesn't break will have their wish granted.
Eid al-Adha, Jun 6-10, 2025
Eid al-Adha, or the "Festival of Sacrifice," honors the story of Prophet Ibrahim, who followed Allah's command to sacrifice his son. Before the sacrifice, an angel intervened, and a ram was offered instead. This festival is celebrated by Muslims worldwide, including in Egypt, with prayers and acts of charity.
On the morning of Eid al-Adha, Muslims across Egypt wear new clothes and gather at mosques to pray and listen to sermons. On their way, they recite the Takbeer and eat lupins. Children often play with colorful balloons outside the mosques.
After the prayers, celebrations fill the streets, where cattle and sheep, symbolizing Ibrahim's sacrifice, are prepared for slaughter. In a spirit of generosity, much of the meat is shared with the poor, ensuring everyone can enjoy a meal during the holiday.
Abu Simbel Sun Festival, Feb 22 & Oct 22, 2025
Unique View in Abu Simbel Sun Festival
The Abu Simbel Sun Festival happens twice a year, on February 22nd and October 22nd, at the temple of Ramses II in Egypt.
During this festival, there will be a marvelous view: the sun, rising in the morning, will go through a 67-meter-long corridor into the innermost sanctuary, and light up the statues of Amun-Ra (god of the sun), Ramses II, and Rahalakhtiti (god of protection) in turn, shining on their solemn faces, while that of Puttah (god of darkness) is hidden in darkness. This magical view was constructed to celebrate Ramses II's ascension to the throne and his birthday.
Besides, you can also enjoy a traditional Nubian performance, and some delicious Egyptian food.
Prophet's Birthday, Sep 14-15, 2025
The Prophet's Birthday celebrates the birth of Prophet Muhammad with prayers, storytelling, and charity. All the cities, streets, and mosques will be bright with lights and bustling with people.
On the streets, you will see many grand marches where people raise green flags and walk, expressing their praise and gratitude to the prophet. People will gather to share sweets like Mawlid (chickpeas with syrup) and other treats. Families often give candy shaped like dolls to children, and food donations are made to the poor.
Coptic Christmas, Jan 7, 2025
Coptic Christmas in Egypt is nearly two weeks later than Christmas in other Western countries. The difference in the dates results from the use of the Orthodox calendars, in which January 7 is the birthday of Jesus Christ.
The Coptic Christmas is celebrated in much the same way as the general Christmas. If the cozy Christmas atmosphere is your preference, come to Egypt and enjoy the continuation of the festivities.
Or, if you want to spend your New Year holiday with your family in Egypt, please check out our guide: How to Celebrate New Year in Egypt
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