Holidays & Observances in Egypt

Egypt is an Arabic country in Northeast Africa where Africa connects to Asia. It is a modern country that is also deeply rooted in its rich and long history. Today Egypt is in the middle of a period of great change that has led to violence on several occasions, but even during this time holidays and traditions have remained important. Islam is the most practiced religion today, but Coptic Christianity was the predominant religion before Islam came to the region. Nearly 10% of the population still practice Christianity today. Coptic Christianity follows the Julian calendar, so Christian holidays in Egypt are celebrated on their Julian dates. Islamic holidays, though, are the most widely celebrated. Ramadan is especially festive here, and many Muslims from nearby countries come to Egypt to celebrate the holy month each year.