The Definitive Guide to Living in the Capital , Cairo , Egypt

Not all New Year’s celebrations have to be in Cairo. If you’re planning to start 2026 away from the crowds, different cities across Egypt offer a variety of options that combine art, heritage, and music in open-air venues, cultural theatres, or historical sites.

From folk art performances in Aswan to elegant musical evenings in Alexandria and entertainment experiences by the sea in Hurghada, here’s a map of the main New Year 2026 celebrations outside Cairo so you can pick what suits you and welcome the new year your way.

Art Nights Theatre on the Nile Corniche in Aswan

Aswan welcomes the new year with special artistic celebrations at Layaly El-Fann Theatre on the Nile Corniche, featuring a series of events over six days, from December 25 through the end of the month.

The performances take place on the Fawzi Fawzi stage, featuring troupes from the General Authority for Cultural Palaces from different governorates. The celebrations feature music and performances reflecting Egyptian heritage and folk arts, held in an open-air setting on the Nile, bringing locals and visitors together for a unique cultural start to the year.

Alexandria Lighthouse Comes Alive at Qaitbay Citadel

In Alexandria, preparations for the New Year 2026 are more than just a celebration; they’re a complete cultural and historical experience inside Qaitbay Citadel. The citadel has opened a new visitor centre with informational panels and a large screen showing, for the first time, a documentary about the sunken artefacts near the citadel.

The film features footage of massive granite stones from the old Alexandria Lighthouse. Some were later used in the construction of the citadel, while others remain submerged. Alongside this, daily sound-and-light shows at 6:30 and 7:30 PM narrate the city’s history from its founding to the modern era, with upgraded facilities and e-tickets for easier visits.

Culture Café Celebrates New Year in Multiple Cities

The Culture Café project, part of Egypt’s Ministry of Culture, offers a different New Year’s Eve experience through three artistic celebrations in various governorates. These events aim to provide meaningful artistic content suitable for Egyptian families, combining music, discussions, and cultural performances in a balance of entertainment and significance.

Oasis Orchestra at Anfoushi Theatre in Alexandria

As part of the Culture Café events, the Anfoushi Palace of Culture Theatre in Alexandria hosts an elegant musical evening on December 31, featuring the Oasis Orchestra under Maestro Mohamed Waheedy, with musician Magid Sorour and a vocal segment by artist Mariam Noah. The programme also includes an interactive session titled Not Just for Men, hosted by media personality Saeed Jamil, offering a unique artistic experience blending music and discussion.

Layaly El-Dehk w Torath at Hurghada Theatre

In the Red Sea governorate, Hurghada Palace of Culture Theatre presents New Year celebrations on December 30 and 31, featuring diverse artistic performances. The programme includes Tanoura dance performances, folk instruments, and the comedic play Hani New Year, starring Alaa Zineham, Hassan Abdel Fattah, and Reda Edris, in a lighthearted atmosphere suitable for families and comedy lovers.

Southern Charm in Aswan’s Folk Art Shows

The south has its own traditions for celebrating, as evidenced by the folk art performances at the Fawzi Fawzi Theatre in Aswan from December 25 to 31. The shows feature performances reflecting the cultures of different Egyptian governorates, set against a Nile-inspired atmosphere that captures the authenticity of southern Egypt, making the start of the new year a joyful, spirited experience.

The New Year 2026 in Egypt’s governorates offers a genuine opportunity for a different experience, away from Cairo’s crowds. Whether you enjoy elegant music, heritage performances, or cultural experiences at historic sites, this guide offers diverse options to give your new year a unique flavour.