New Year's Day in Egypt is celebrated with much enthusiasm and cheer as it is in most parts of the world. This day is a public holiday in Egypt, marking the beginning of the new Gregorian calendar year. During this holiday, Egyptians participate in social gatherings and indulge in feasting with family and friends. It is not just observed as a passage of time but is intertwined with cultural customs and norms unique to Egyptians.
As with other festive occasions, New Year's Day in Egypt is characterized by abundance and variety of food. Traditional Egyptian meals are cooked and enjoyed with extended family and friends. It is also typical for people to give New Year’s gifts, known as 'Eidi', particularly to children. Many people also choose this day to make important resolutions for the year ahead, aiming for personal growth and improvement.
In addition to private celebrations, public festivities are also a significant part of New Year's Day in Egypt. Various cities in Egypt host spectacular firework displays and concerts for locals and tourists alike. Famous landmarks, like the Pyramids and the Nile, are usually lit up, providing magnificent backdrops to the celebrations. Despite the western origins of the holiday, Egyptians have managed to incorporate their local customs and traditions into the celebrations, making the New Year's Day a unique Egyptian event.