Cairo, nicknamed “the city of a thousand minarets,” hosts a variety of native and international festivals throughout the year. As the premiere city on the whole continent of Africa, Cairo is a metro area surrounded by thousands of years in Egyptian history. This diversity allows you the chance to become familiar with the glorious festivals that entertain the whole world.

Spiritual Festivals

Whether you're religious or not, the main spiritual festivals held in Cairo carry a large amount of social significance. They can provide you with amazing opportunities or they can be real hard obstacles to overcome. On January 7th the Christian community celebrates the birthday of Jesus Christ. Throughout the streets and alleyways believers take part in religious services and concerts.

You can also witness one of the most revered days in the Islamic calendar. The Festival of Sacrifice is usually celebrated around the end of December; it commemorates the end of the Hajj pilgrimage and the willingness of Abraham to sacrifice his only son to God. Also during the 9th month of the year, Ramadan is observed. Fasting is strictly followed during the day. Later on, just before nighttime, people pour out into the streets to eat and party with friends. The setback being the already brief days are made even shorter during the time of Ramadan.

Annual Festivals   

During the whole year there are numerous festivals to pique all sorts of interests you may have. You will have no problem scheduling your vacation to include one of Cairo’s premiere festivals. In January, the well known Flora Egypt Fair is an international event that showcases an array of fresh cut flowers and ornamental plants. The fair offers meetings and workshops on all horticultural matters and future ideas.

If you like artwork, Cairo Biennale is the festival for you. This remarkable display explores all aspects of contemporary art. At this time, it's considered the most important cultural event in the Middle East.

Film lovers from all over the world come here in December to take a part of the International Film Festival. You can mingle with actors and producers from a large list of countries as you get a preview of upcoming movies and films. No matter what your preference for fun, Cairo certainly has a festival for you.