Revolution Feast

Historical background

23 July commemorates the Egyptian revolution against the monarchy and British colonial rule. The 1952 Revolution was led by young army officers known as the Free Officer Movement, whose immediate aim was to remove King Farouq I, the last ruler of the Mohamed Ali dynasty, from the throne.

After the revolution the Arab Republic of Egypt was declared, and Marshal General Mohamed Naguib became the first president of the modern state. He was succeeded by President Nasser, who ruled Egypt until 1970. The day is celebrated across the country with military parades and national concerts.

How it is celebrated

Revolution Day is a national holiday with an official tone. The president usually gives a speech on the eve or on the day, and newspapers and television look back at the events of 1952 and the years that followed.

Television channels show films and documentaries about the revolution, and patriotic songs are played on radio and in public places. For most families, though, it is simply a summer day off, often spent at the beach, by the Nile or with relatives.

The holiday falls in high summer, when many Egyptians are already on holiday on the north coast or by the Red Sea, so resorts can be busy.

What is open and closed

Government offices, banks and schools close. Shops, restaurants and cafes are usually open, and archaeological sites and museums usually keep their normal hours.

In 2027 the date falls on a Friday, which is already the weekend in Egypt. The government sometimes moves the day off for national holidays to a Thursday or a Sunday to give a longer weekend, so check the official announcement nearer the time if you have business to do.