How to Celebrate an Egyptian Christmas

Contributor

By eHow Contributing Writer

Article Rating: (83 Ratings)

In Egypt, the Coptic (Orthodox) Church celebrates the birth of Jesus on January 7. This is a festive day on which family and friends come together.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Step 1

Remember that the holy family fled Palestine for Egypt, passing through more than 20 cities on their journey to reach safety and security there.
Step 2

Observe Advent for 40 days prior to Christmas. During this time, eat no meat, poultry or dairy products. (Today, some people do this for only one week.)
Step 3

Wear a new outfit on Christmas Eve, following a long-standing tradition in Egypt.
Step 4

Understand that the church will be decorated with candles and lamps in memory of Joseph, who lit candles to protect Mary from the cold during the Nativity.
Step 5

Keep in mind that bells will ring when the Christmas Eve church service ends, signaling the end of the fast.
Step 6

Expect to receive a special bread called "qurban" at the conclusion of the service. The bread will have a cross in the middle and 12 dots, which represent the 12 apostles.
Step 7

Prepare a Christmas meal (called "fata") of rice, garlic and boiled meat.
Step 8

Spend Christmas morning visiting others. On your visits bring "kaik" (a type of shortbread), which will be eaten with a special drink called "shortbat."

Post a Comment