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

We’ve just passed the halfway mark in Ramadan and seen tents play a starring role in this year’s festivities. One of the most popular spots once again has been Lanterns; Uptown Cairo’s spin on the traditional Ramadan kheima has become particularly popular for its wide, airy setting, in addition to great food and relaxed atmosphere.

But one of the other main factors in its popularity has been its entertainment. While the majority of tents around the capital have gone down the nostalgic route with shaabi stars of yesteryear, Lanterns have shaken things up, with the likes of Dina El Wedidi and Heidi Moussa having performed – but there’s still more to come.

Take this Friday 16th, for example, when one of the country’s most unique music acts, Hisham Kharma, is set to take to the stage. The award-winning, genre-bending musician isn’t exactly the first name that comes to mind when you think ‘Egyptian sohour’, but his seamless brand of electronic Egyptian fusion is a perfect fit for Lantern’s laidback setting.

Saturday 17th, meanwhile, will see things take a turn for the Oriental with quirky threesome, Onsy & The Groove. Made-up of a male vocalist and two female percussionists, the trio have slowly made a name for themselves in the last year for their live performances at places like LIV Lounge.

Fast-forward to Thursday 22nd and you have another huge music act kicking off the weekend for Lanterns, this time, Egyptian Project. The French-Egyptian group’s sophisticated blend of Egyptian melodies, voice and rhythms with European electronic beats and textures makes for one of the most unique sounds you’re likely to here this Ramadan.

Not a bad way to wind down a hot summer’s day of fasting, right? For more information and reservations, call 16129.