Egyptians celebrate two major holidays. The first is Eid-al-Fitr which marks the end of Ramadan and is celebrated with much feasting and almsgiving.

The second important holiday is Eid-al-Adha which celebrates the Prophet Abraham's willingness to offer his son for sacrifice. It is at this time that Muslims will have a sheep or goat slaughtered to feed the poor and needy. Muharram marks the Muslim New Year. The Islamic calendar is based on the phases of the moon and has 354 days.

Coptic Christians celebrate Christmas on January 7, following the Julian calendar. Saints are very important to the Copts and on Saints' days, many Copts travel to remote monasteries and churches. Folk festivals, shared by Muslims and Christians, demonstrate a blending of cultures and religions.

Egypt's National Holiday is July 23. It celebrates Revolution Day, which occurred in 1952.

Did you know? Egyptians hold festivals called moulids to honour Muslim or Christian holy men or saints.