Catalyst Travels

Coptic Christmas Celebrations
2026-01-07 - 2026-01-09 | Alexandria, Alexandria, Alexandria, Alexandria, 5465, Egypt
Celebrated by Egypt’s Coptic Christian community, Coptic Christmas is a deeply spiritual and culturally rich holiday. In 2026, churches across Cairo, Alexandria, and Upper Egypt will host midnight masses, candlelit processions, and traditional feasts. Old Cairo’s Hanging Church and the Monastery of Saint Simon in Mokattam will be focal points for both locals and visitors.
The atmosphere is reverent yet festive, with choirs singing ancient hymns and families sharing dishes like fatta and kahk. For travelers, it’s a rare opportunity to witness Egypt’s Christian heritage in full bloom, surrounded by centuries-old architecture and heartfelt tradition.

Abu Simbel Sun Festival
2026-10-29 | Aswan, Aswan, Aswan, Aswan, 234234, Egypt
Twice a year, the inner sanctum of the Great Temple of Ramses II in Abu Simbel is illuminated by the rising sun, casting light on the statues of the gods and the pharaoh himself.
This astronomical marvel, designed over 3,000 years ago, draws thousands of visitors from around the world. In 2026, the February and October festivals are expected to be especially vibrant, with traditional Nubian music, dance performances, and guided tours of the temples. The event blends ancient engineering with modern celebration, offering a once-in-a-lifetime experience for travelers who want to witness Egypt’s spiritual and architectural genius in action.

Siwa Oasis Date Harvest Festival
2026-10-29 - 2026-11-29 | Siwa, Matrouh, 654654, Egypt
Each autumn, the Siwa Oasis comes alive with its annual Date Harvest Festival, a celebration of the region’s most prized crop. In 2026, the festival will span several days of Berber music, poetry, camel races, and open-air feasts beneath the stars.
Visitors can join locals in harvesting dates, learn about traditional irrigation systems, and explore the mud-brick architecture of Shali Fortress. The event is a window into a slower, earth-connected way of life, offering travelers a chance to disconnect from the modern world and reconnect with Egypt’s desert soul.

Cairo International Film Festival
2026-11-14 - 2027-01-14 | Cairo, Old Cairo, Cairo, Cairo, 21524, Egypt
As one of the oldest and most prestigious film festivals in the Arab world, the Cairo International Film Festival (CIFF) returns in 2026 with a lineup of global premieres, red carpet galas, and thought-provoking cinema. Held at the Cairo Opera House and other iconic venues, CIFF attracts filmmakers, critics, and cinephiles from across the globe.
In addition to screenings, the festival features panel discussions, masterclasses, and cultural exhibitions. For travelers, it’s a chance to experience Egypt’s modern creative pulse while mingling with artists and storytellers in the heart of the capital.
