The first holiday I would like to tell you more about is Easter. Not the whole country celebrates Orthodox Easter in Egypt, since the main religion is Islam.
Only the Copts celebrate the holiday, and their celebration is no different from ours. The celebration is preceded by Lent, strictly observed by believers. On the eve of Easter, solemn services are held in their churches. For the day of the holiday, they, like us, paint eggs, bake sweet bread, set rich tables, at which all families gather.
For all Egyptians who profess Islam, the day after Easter is a holiday – Bright Monday. In the country, this day is also celebrated as Sham Ennessim and it is a national holiday. This day is recognized as a day off. Its history goes back to Ancient Egypt, when there was a spring festival “Shemu”, therefore Sham Ennessim is the most ancient holiday in the country. On this day, festivities and public events are held in the parks, whole families walk and rejoice at the arrival of spring. For visiting tourists, Easter and Spring Festival are barely noticeable unless you specifically visit the places of celebration.