Spring Festival in Egypt (Sham El-Nessim)

Day: The Spring Festival, known as Sham El-Nessim, is celebrated on the day after Eastern Orthodox Easter Monday, which falls on a different date each year due to its reliance on the lunar calendar.

History: Sham El-Nessim has ancient origins dating back to 2700 BCE in Egypt. It began as a Pharaonic tradition marking the beginning of spring and has been celebrated continuously for over 4500 years. The name "Sham El-Nessim" translates to "smelling the breeze," reflecting its connection to the fresh air and new life of spring.

Traditions: On Sham El-Nessim, Egyptians engage in several traditional activities:

• Picnicking: Families often gather in parks, by the Nile, or in other open spaces to enjoy picnics.
• Food: Traditional foods consumed on this day include:
  • Feseekh: A fermented, salted, and dried grey mullet fish.
  • Green onions: Often eaten for good health.
  • Colored boiled eggs: Symbolizing life and rebirth.
• Nature: Many people spend time outdoors appreciating nature's renewal.
• Folk Games: Children and adults participate in various traditional games.

What People Do: In addition to enjoying picnics with specific traditional foods and spending time outside, Egyptians also use this day to socialize with friends and family. It's a public holiday in Egypt, so many take advantage of the time off work or school to relax and celebrate the season. As it is a non-religious festival, Sham El-Nessim is celebrated by all Egyptians regardless of religion or creed.