Events in Cairo

Different kinds of festivals ,which are held every year are important events in Cairo. Egypt celebrates a number of events and festivals,which are held in the country's capital city, Cairo. Colorful cultural, religious and sporting festivals are a major tourist attraction. Religious events in Cairo are held according to the Islamic lunar calendar, which is 11 days shorter than the solar calendar. The main religious festivals are Ramdan, Eid-al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha. Ramdan is a month long fasting during daylight practiced by the Muslims. Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramdan fasting. Three days of feasting follows a month long fasting. All the religious events of Cairo are marked by colorful decoration of the streets and the market place, fireworks, elaborate processions and music. Coptic Christmas is celebrated every year in January.


Cairo is also the seat of important cultural festivals relating to music, films and theater. The International Film Festival in Cairo is the most prominent cultural event of Cairo. It was started in 1976, and is held every year. The importance of this film festival has increased manifold since the 1990s and today this festival recognized globally. It acts as a platform for the local filmmakers to exhibit their talents. Egypt's International Photography Festival held every year in January is an important Cairo event. Photographs related to nature, travel and portraits are showcased in this festival. Both amateur and professional photographers participate in this festival. The Oriental Dance Festival in Cairo is a colorful festival filled with fun and frolic. Dancers from different regions perform various forms of Egyptian dance like the belly dance and the folk dance. Other important events in Cairo are the Arabian Music Festival and the Cairo International Book Fair.

Every year thousands of tourists travel to Cairo to participate and experience these festivals. These events in Cairo allow an insight into the culture and tradition of this spectacular capital city.