Coptic Christmas

 What is Coptic Christmas? Coptic Christmas is celebrated every 7th of January by Egypt's Coptic Orthodox Church. They recognize this date as the day that Jesus was born. Homes of Coptic Christians are decorated with festive lights and Christmas trees.  The streets and shops also share the festive spirit with decors and merchandise such as Santa hats and unique gift ideas. The younger members of the family are also given cash gifts on the 6th or Christmas Eve. Need to KnowMany Egyptian Christians belong to the Coptic Orthodox Church and they have some very unique traditions for Christmas. In the run-up to Christmas day, Coptic Christians fast for 43 days, strictly avoiding food products that come from animals. They call this The Holy Nativity Fast. The fasting period ends just in time for the Coptic Christmas dinner where traditional Egyptian dishes and side dishes are served, with a Christmas turkey as the centerpiece. Did You KnowCompared to Catholics who use the Gregorian Calendar that recognizes December 25th as Christmas day, Coptic Orthodox Christians use the older Julian Calendar, which has a 13-day difference from the Gregorian Calendar. Hence, why they celebrate Christmas on January 7th.