Cairo has long been one of the most important Arab capitals, hosting many significant annual events. These events are one of its main attractions, as tourists from various countries travel there for recreation and entertainment and to attend the yearly artistic, cultural, and national events that Cairo has been organizing for decades.
The Cairo International Film Festival
The Cairo International Film Festival is one of the most famous events organized annually in Cairo. It is also one of the most important festivals in the Arab world and Africa. The 2024 festival will be held from November 13 to 22 at the Cairo Opera House.
This event was established in 1976. Many awards are presented, including Best Film, Best Actor and Actress, Best Director, Best Screenplay, and many more. Since its inception, this festival has honored many artists, writers, and directors, including international, Arab, and local figures.
Annual Sham El-Nessim Celebration
Sham El-Nessim is the oldest popular celebration in history, originating from ancient Egyptians. Egyptians have been celebrating this spring season for 5,000 years. Today, Egyptians head to parks and gardens during Sham El-Nessim to enjoy the beautiful weather and the magic of nature. During this season, many food and drink traditions passed down from ancestors are highlighted and still practiced today.
Sham El-Nessim is an opportunity for tourists to engage with the local community in Cairo and learn more about Egyptian customs and their ways of celebration and entertainment.
Cairo Jazz Festival
Cairo will host the 2024 Jazz Festival in November. This festival is eagerly anticipated and attracts music lovers and tourists from all over the world. Attendees can enjoy the beautiful melodies of various musical instruments, especially jazz.
The first jazz festival in Cairo was organized in 2009. Since then, the festival has welcomed world-class musicians who perform jazz professionally and artfully.
The Cairo Jazz Festival is a fantastic cultural and artistic space, offering an excellent opportunity for tourists who enjoy this kind of classic and beautiful musical art.
Prophet’s Birthday Celebrations
Egyptians love their noble Prophet, and they celebrate his birthday every year. During this occasion, decorations and beautiful lights fill the streets and markets. Families prepare delicious sweets and traditional meals offered to children and adults during visits and gatherings in various neighborhoods.
In short, during the Prophet’s birthday, you will feel the presence of the occasion and sense the significance of this date, which holds a special place in the hearts of Egyptians in Cairo and other cities across Egypt.
Arts Festival
From August 24 to 31, Cairo will celebrate one of the largest art festivals in the Arab world: the Incredible Arts Festival. This festival is the official sponsor of art and beauty in the Arab world. It brings together artists from around the globe to present various art forms, such as visual arts, theater, music, and literature. This festival is an annual opportunity for tourists and art lovers to enjoy the brilliance and beauty of human creativity.
New Year’s Eve Celebrations
Like the rest of the world, Cairo celebrates New Year’s Eve. On this occasion, stores and markets prepare to offer attractive deals for tourists and visitors. Celebrations are held in various parts of Cairo, and those wanting to see fireworks displays can head to the area near Cairo Tower or the pyramids in Giza. Significant areas are adorned with lights and decorations for New Year’s Eve.
In summary, the weather in Cairo during December is cold but pleasant, and the city is at its best, ready to welcome tourists who can enjoy many exciting activities.
National Day Celebration
October 6 is a national holiday in Egypt, particularly in Cairo. The capital celebrates the victory in the 1973 Yom Kippur War on this date. The armed forces are honored through military and aerial shows, and many people participate in these significant events.
Nile Flood Celebration
The Nile River has been one of the most important symbols of Egypt and its civilizations throughout history. It is a great river, considered the longest in the world, with vast waterways capable of accommodating large river ferries. Due to its significance in the hearts of Egyptians, a holiday has been dedicated to honoring its contributions and importance in Egypt’s geography throughout history. Poetry sessions, lectures, music concerts, and drawing contests are held during this celebration, which takes place in September.
Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha Celebrations
Egypt is predominantly Muslim, and Islamic occasions are significant in Egyptian culture. Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha are the most important Islamic holidays for Egyptians. Schools and institutions close for several days; children wear festive clothing, and people exchange visits, gifts, and sweets. During these two Eids, markets, neighborhoods, and homes are decorated to reflect the joy and significance of the celebrations—Egyptians in Cairo and other areas of Egypt head to mosques for Eid prayers. Muslims pay Zakat al-Fitr during Eid al-Fitr and perform animal sacrifices during Eid al-Adha.