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Cairo Events |
Ashura
 Marking the
martyrdom of Hussein at Karbala, this Shi'ite festival begins on the
eve of the 10th day of the Islamic month Moharram. Cairo's Shia minority
gathers around the Mosque of El-Hussein during the eve and day of
the event, holding zikrs (religious dances) and musical performances.
Sunni Muslims often join the celebrations and offer charity to the
poor. Hussein, the grandson of Prophet Mohammed, was killed in Iraq
in AD 680 by the Umayyads, who did not recognise his claim to the
Caliphate.
Moulid of El-Hussein
This is one of the most popular and colorful festivals of the year, gathering pace over a week and culminating in a Leyla Kebira (big night) on the last Wednesday of the Islamic month of Rabi el-Tani. Pilgrims from all over the country come to El-Hussein Mosque to honor the Prophet's grandson, who was killed in Iraq in 680 A.D. Tents are erected around the mosque for poets, entertainers and zikr (religious dances). Sufis attending the festivities parade through the streets, each sect with its own banners and musical instruments.
Coptic Christmas
 This
low-key event kicks off with a midnight Mass on 7 January. Monasteries
close for fasting during the preceding 43 days, and Copts follow a
strict vegan and fish diet. All Coptic businesses close for the day,
and most Coptic families spend their time visiting family members
and exchanging gifts.
Aida at Giza
 The
Cairo Opera House produces annual performances of Verdi's opera in
front of the dramatic Pyramids of Giza. The famous tale of Aida remains
one of Guiseppe Verdi's best-loved operas, a tragic tale of love featuring
an Egyptian captain, Pharoah's daughter and an Ethiopian slave girl,
Aida.
Christmas Concert I by the Cairo Symphony
Orchestra
What an experience it will be to hear the sounds of Christmas in Cairo. The Cairo Symphony Orchestra will present this Christmas concert, one of two planned in the month of December. This performance traditionally includes orchestral favorites with guest artists featured. Ticket prices range, depending upon where you sit, and may be reserved up to one month in advance. A jacket and tie are required for this performance, and children under seven years of age are not allowed.
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