How To Celebrate Christmas in Egypt | Traditions & Tours

If you want to live a unique and different experience this year, you must know how to celebrate Christmas in Egypt! Here, you’ll find an atmosphere full of joy and celebrations that blend Coptic traditions with the holiday spirit. 

Get ready to discover magical places, delicious traditional foods, and the best moments you can enjoy with your family and friends.

How To Celebrate Christmas in Egypt

If you want to live a special Christmas this year, you must know how to celebrate Christmas in Egypt! Egypt is not just the land of the pyramids and the Nile; it’s also a place with a unique Christmas atmosphere and a special spirit. 

You’ll feel joy everywhere, from the ancient churches that have preserved Coptic traditions for a long time, to the streets and markets decorated with colors, ornaments, and fun activities for the whole family.

What makes the celebration here special is the mix of religious spirit with modern joy and festivity. 

You’ll find midnight masses in the churches, markets full of handmade gifts and traditional products, and also traditional Egyptian foods like Kahk and Fatta will be part of the celebration.

Celebrate Christmas in Egypt in style with our  10 Days Cairo, Aswan, Luxor & Hurghada Overland Tour , visiting festive churches, markets, and the Red Sea resorts.

Read about: How to Celebrate Your New Year in Egypt

Christmas in Egypt: What Makes It Unique

Christmas in Egypt has a unique and different character, not just lights, decorations, and streets full of joy, but the celebration here is special because it combines religious spirit and ancient traditions with modern happiness. Anyone who experiences it will realize it’s a one-of-a-kind experience.

Experience magical Nile cruises and Christmas dinners on board with our  7 Day Egypt Tour Cairo Nile Cruise and Luxor Temples .

Blend of Coptic Traditions and Festive Spirit

What makes Christmas in Egypt truly different is the wonderful mix of Coptic traditions and the festive modern atmosphere. 

If you’re wondering how to celebrate Christmas in Egypt, Egyptian Copts start preparing for the holiday with the Great Fast, which lasts about 43 days, and this helps people focus on spirituality and prayer, while also getting ready to celebrate the holiday with joy and happiness.

On the day of Christmas itself, the ancient churches are full of worshippers attending midnight masses, and families gather for celebrations and special occasions.

Also, streets and markets are full of colors and decorations, and Christmas music and songs create a joyful feeling everywhere.

Explore the historic side of Christmas with our   8 Days Cairo, Luxor, Aswan Classic Tours , including visits to iconic churches and midnight mass services.

Best Places to Spend Christmas in Egypt

For a unique way to spend Christmas, Cairo is a wonderful place to be. Here, you’ll find a long history, ancient churches, and a Christmas atmosphere full of joy and spirituality at the same time.

Celebrate a magical Christmas in Egypt with our specially designed  Egypt tour packages , visiting historic churches, festive markets, and enjoying Nile cruises and Red Sea resorts.

Cairo’s Churches and Historic Festivities

The most famous thing in Cairo for Christmas is the historic churches, like St. Mark’s Church, which gives you a spiritual experience you won’t find anywhere else. 

The celebrations here aren’t just midnight masses, but also include activities and a general joyful atmosphere. Some of the main celebrations are:

• Midnight masses in the ancient churches, with worshippers participating in religious rituals.
• Christmas decorations and music in the streets around the churches.
• Small festivals and activities for children and families, like musical and singing performances.
• Loved ones come together to celebrate, give presents, and enjoy happy moments.
• Visiting nearby historic markets to get handmade gifts and traditional foods.

Join our   15 Days Egypt Holy Family Trip , where you can celebrate Christmas while exploring Egypt’s rich Christian history, visiting ancient churches and sacred spots.

Enjoy Christmas on the Red Sea shores in Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada

For a lively beach-style Christmas, the Red Sea resorts of Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada are ideal.

Here, you’ll experience Christmas differently, between the sea, the sun, and recreational activities for the whole family, with plenty of   Things to do in Hurghada city   that make your holiday even more exciting. 

The main celebrations and events include:

• Festive musical and artistic shows on the beaches of hotels and resorts.
• Activities and workshops for children and families to make Christmas decorations and do drawing.
• Evening parties and parades full of lights and decorations along the corniches and beaches.
• Short boat trips and water activities with a joyful and exciting atmosphere.
• Restaurants and resorts offering special menus with traditional and international Christmas foods.

Make your Christmas unforgettable with a scenic coastal celebration on the Red Sea via  Cairo and Sharm El Sheikh Vacation Package , perfect for sun, sea, and festive fun.

Read about: Best Cities to Visit in Egypt 

Festive Nights in Luxor and Aswan

If you want to know how to celebrate Christmas in Egypt, and enjoy a historic and cultural atmosphere, Luxor and Aswan are the ideal destinations.

Here, celebrations are full of spirituality and cultural activities that reflect the heritage of Upper Egypt and the Egyptian spirit during the holiday.

The main activities include:

• Night Nile cruises with Christmas lights and decorations.
• Visiting temples and historical sites with special festive activities for the occasion.
• Local markets are full of handmade gifts and traditional Egyptian crafts.
• Small musical and singing celebrations in squares and streets.
• Family gatherings and children’s activities to enhance the holiday spirit and joy.

Discover festive traditions in Upper Egypt while cruising from Aswan to Luxor on a  Dahabiya Nile Cruise Aswan to Luxor , complete with Christmas Eve celebrations.

Read about: What are the important holidays in Egypt

Attend a Coptic Christmas Mass

If you want to feel Christmas in a spiritual and different way, attending midnight masses in Coptic churches will be an unforgettable experience. 

Here, you’ll see how Egyptian Copts celebrate the holiday with all their traditions and heritage, and you’ll feel the true spiritual atmosphere of Christmas.

Enjoy a luxurious Christmas celebration along the Nile with  Luxury Egypt Tours with Nile Cruise , including traditional meals and guided holiday activities.

Must-Visit Churches for Midnight Service

If you are going to attend midnight masses, there are famous churches you must visit in Cairo and other governorates. The most important ones include:

• St. Mark’s Church – Cairo: One of the oldest churches in Egypt, calm and spiritual atmosphere, masses start around 11 PM.
• Archangel Michael Church – Old Cairo: A historic and beautiful church, with authentic Christmas hymns and music on Christmas night.
• Nativity of Christ Cathedral – New Cairo: The largest cathedral in Egypt, masses are full of people with a wonderful festive atmosphere.
• Saints Church – Alexandria: If you want to attend masses by the sea, the atmosphere here is calm and inspiring.
• Virgin Mary Church – Luxor and Aswan: If you are in Upper Egypt, midnight masses here offer a spiritual experience amid history and culture.

Attending the masses is not just for prayer; it’s also an opportunity to see Christmas decorations, beautiful hymns, and experience Coptic traditions that have continued for years, making the holiday full of warmth and true spirituality.

Christmas Markets and Shopping in Egypt

If you want to experience a different Christmas and take souvenirs from Egypt, Christmas markets are the perfect place. 

The atmosphere here is not just full of colors and decorations, but also full of the holiday spirit among the people and different activities. 

You can shop and find everything you want from gifts, foods, and unique traditional Egyptian items.

Witness Egypt’s festive beauty and cultural highlights in a relaxed luxury style with  12 Days Luxury Cairo, The Nile & Red Sea , perfect for an indulgent Christmas holiday.

Read about: How to Enjoy A Luxury Vacation in Egypt

Where to Find Handmade Gifts and Local Crafts

If you are looking for handmade gifts and authentic Egyptian crafts, there are famous places you must visit:

• Khan El Khalili – Cairo: The oldest and most famous market in Egypt, full of shops for handmade gifts, traditional crafts, small statues, and beautiful paintings.
• Al-Mosky Market – Cairo: A popular market with traditional products and handmade gifts, where you can feel the authentic Egyptian atmosphere.
• Local markets in Luxor and Aswan: Here you’ll find handmade goods from Upper Egypt, like jewelry, small rugs, and traditional pottery.
• Markets in Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh: Shops for handmade souvenirs for tourists, as well as unique marine products.

Christmas markets here make you feel the true holiday spirit through the colors, music, and lively crowds. 

Handmade gifts and local crafts also give you the chance to take a piece of Egyptian culture with you and enjoy a fun and unique experience.

Festive Nile Cruise Experience

If you want to celebrate Christmas in a luxurious and different way, a Nile cruise on a ship full of festive atmosphere will be an unforgettable experience. 

The Nile is around you, and the stunning natural views give a feeling of calm and joy at the same time, and the ship is also full of fun activities for the whole family.

Experience a unique Christmas in Egypt with our   8 Days Pyramids & The Nile by Air , including guided tours of historic monuments and holiday festivities.

Read more about: How Much Does a Nile Cruise Cost

Special Christmas Eve Dinners on Board

This Christmas dinner will also give you the chance to explore Egyptian cuisine, letting you taste some of the   top 10 traditional foods in Egypt while enjoying the festive atmosphere. 

In this place, the holiday comes alive through mouthwatering dishes and lively celebrations you won’t find anywhere else: 

• Special Christmas menus, including traditional Egyptian dishes like Fatta and Kahk, as well as international dishes for tourist guests.
• Musical and singing performances on the ship that add an atmosphere of fun and joy.
• Decorations and Christmas lights everywhere on the ship reflecting the holiday spirit.
• Activities for children and families, like workshops for drawing and making Christmas decorations.
• The chance to relax and enjoy the natural views of the Nile while having dinner and celebrating.

This Nile trip combines delicious food, relaxation, and the holiday spirit, making Christmas Eve a unique and special experience for the whole family.

Read about also: What to Pack For A Nile Cruise

Traditional Egyptian Christmas Foods to Try

If you want to experience Christmas in Egypt the authentic way, you must try the traditional dishes every Egyptian family prepares for the holiday. 

These foods aren’t just meals—they’re part of the celebration and the holiday spirit. Each dish has its own story and unique flavor. 

The most important ones to try are Fatta, Kahk, and other traditional baked goods that make you feel the real Christmas spirit.

Where to Taste Authentic Fata and Kahk

If you want to taste these dishes in authentic places, there are famous spots across Egypt you should visit:

• Cairo: Traditional sweet shops like "El Hosary" and "El Masry" serve Fatta and Kahk made the authentic way.
• Alexandria: Sweet shops around the Cosmo area have fresh Kahk and Fatta, perfect for enjoying the Mediterranean touch.
• Luxor and Aswan: Local markets and street vendors offer Fatta and Kahk prepared in the authentic Upper Egyptian style, with a truly special flavor.
• Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh: Some restaurants and hotels serve special Christmas menus featuring Kahk and Fatta for visitors and tourists.

Weather and Travel Tips for Christmas in Egypt

If you plan to celebrate Christmas in Egypt, it’s important to know the weather before you travel so you can be prepared and enjoy every moment. 

December in Egypt is moderate most of the time, but temperatures can vary between Cairo, Upper Egypt, and the Red Sea resorts. 

The weather is perfect for walking, visiting attractions, and Nile trips.

What to Pack for a December Trip

To be ready and enjoy your trip, keep these things in mind:

• Light and warm clothes: The daytime is moderate, but nights are a bit cooler, especially in Cairo and Upper Egypt.
• Light jacket or sweater: Important for night trips or on the Nile.
• Comfortable shoes: You will walk a lot in churches, markets, and attractions, so comfortable shoes are a must.
• Hat and sunglasses: The sun is gentle during the day, especially in Upper Egypt, so you should protect yourself.
• Small day bag: To carry personal items, water, and any essentials while exploring.

By following these tips, your trip in Egypt during Christmas will be comfortable and enjoyable, and you’ll feel the holiday spirit everywhere, whether you’re in Cairo, Luxor and Aswan, or even on the Red Sea beaches.

Read about: Egypt Temperatures in December

Plan Your Christmas Holiday with a Guided Tour

If you’re wondering how to plan a trip to Cairo Egypt , the easiest way is to join a guided tour. 

This way, you won’t have to worry about organizing everything yourself. A professional guide will show you the must-see landmarks, help you discover the best spots, and make sure you enjoy your holiday stress-free

Best 7–10 Day Christmas Tour Packages

If you want a complete experience, there are special 7–10 day tour packages that combine culture, fun, and beautiful nature:

• Visit Historic Cairo: The Pyramids, Egyptian Museum, and famous Christmas churches, with the chance to shop in Christmas markets.
• Nile Cruise in Luxor and Aswan: Enjoy the stunning views of the Nile, dinner on board the Nile ships, and special Christmas activities.
• Red Sea Visit – Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh: Relax on the beaches, enjoy fun water activities, and family-friendly festive events.
• Entertainment and Cultural Tours: Workshops, musical performances, and visits to local markets for gifts and handmade crafts.
• Comfortable and Organized Accommodation: Carefully selected hotels to ensure your comfort, with delicious meals reflecting both traditional and international Egyptian cuisine.

Treat your family to a festive holiday with our   Egyptian Family Holiday package, combining Christmas markets, cultural tours, and Nile adventures.

Experience Christmas in Egypt with Egypt Online Tour

Imagine celebrating Christmas in a truly Egyptian atmosphere: visiting historic churches in Cairo, wandering through handmade gift markets, or relaxing on a beautiful Nile cruise in Luxor and Aswan. 

With Egypt Online Tour, you can enjoy all this without any stress or planning worries.

Our tours let you:

• Visit the top Christmas spots in Egypt: churches, markets, and famous historic sites.
• Enjoy festive Nile trips with special Christmas dinners on board.
• Have fun in coastal cities like Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada with holiday events and water activities.
• Taste traditional Egyptian Christmas foods like Fatta and Kahk in authentic locations.
• Stay comfortably and travel smoothly with English-speaking guides who can take you to the best activities and celebrations.

What are you waiting for? Contact us now and make your Christmas trip in Egypt an unforgettable experience full of fun, memories, and the holiday spirit!

• [email protected]

• +201274503634

Conclusion

Christmas in Egypt is a unique and completely different experience, full of colors, decorations, authentic traditions, and a joyful, exciting atmosphere. 

From historic churches to handmade gift markets, and from Nile cruises to special Christmas dinners, you’ll feel the holiday spirit in every moment. 

If you want to experience a different Christmas full of beautiful memories, Egypt will give you all that and more. Don’t wait—plan your trip and enjoy a real, fun Christmas experience for the whole family!