Sham El-Nessim: Egypt’s Spring Festival between History and Tradition
In an atmosphere filled with the fragrance of flowers and the gentle breeze of spring, Egyptians celebrate one of the oldest and most unique festivals in history: Sham El-Nessim. This day serves as a national holiday that brings together Muslims and Christians in a cherished folk tradition reflecting Egypt’s spirit and ever-renewing identity.
Egyptians celebrate Sham El-Nessim, or “Spring Festival,” every year. This ancient celebration reflects Egypt’s rich heritage as the cradle of civilizations and the land of religions. The origins of this holiday go back thousands of years, tied to traditions and customs related to creation and the rebirth of life. It takes place on the Monday following Easter Sunday according to the Coptic calendar and falls in the month of Pharmuthi.
The roots of Sham El-Nessim date back to Pharaonic times, when ancient Egyptians celebrated a festival called “Shemu” as a symbol of the beginning of the harvest season and the renewal of life. The Greek historian Plutarch documented this festival, which coincided with the vernal equinox, in the first century AD. Egyptians would offer salted fish, onions, and lettuce as offerings to the gods. These foods are still part of Egyptian tables today.
When Christianity was brought to Egypt, the festival became linked to the celebration of Easter. Since then, Sham El-Nessim has always been held on the Monday after Easter according to the Coptic calendar. After the Islamic conquest, Egyptians of all religions continued to celebrate the festival, which became a national tradition passed down through generations.
Despite the passage of thousands of years, the celebration’s traditions have remained largely unchanged. Egyptians still head out early in the morning to parks and public gardens. Some go to the banks of the Nile or to villages to enjoy the open air. Green spaces become large stages for children's joy and family gatherings, creating scenes that reflect the unity of the Egyptian people and their natural desire for happiness.
The Egyptian table during Sham El-Nessim is known for its variety and deep connection to cultural symbols. No Egyptian home is without dishes like feseekh (salted fermented fish), ringa (smoked herring), sardines, green onions, lettuce, and lupin beans, in addition to the tradition of coloring eggs, which also dates back to Pharaonic times and remains a symbol of renewal and rebirth.
These foods carry deep meanings in Egyptian culture, such as:
Eggs represent the beginning of life emerging from inanimate matter. Egyptians used to inscribe their wishes on eggs and hang them on trees or place them on balconies, hoping for divine blessings.
Onions are associated with the desire for life and overcoming death, especially in an ancient legend where onions were said to have cured a Pharaoh’s son from a mysterious illness.
Lettuce was considered a sacred plant. It symbolized the arrival of spring and the growth of life. It appeared as an offering in temple scenes as early as the Fourth Dynasty.
Feseekh dates back to the Fifth Dynasty and symbolized fertility and abundance. Egyptians developed an exceptional skill in preparing salted fish.
Green chickpeas (malana) were seen as a natural sign of the arrival of spring and the ripening of the earth.
Sham El-Nessim remains a symbol of joy and renewal. It is a chance to revive the bonds that connect Egyptians across generations. Despite modern-day challenges, this holiday continues to inspire hope and positivity. It is not only a return to nature but also a celebration of Egypt’s enduring heritage and the people’s deep belief in life and communal spirit. Sham El-Nessim is more than just a holiday. It is an open invitation to enjoy life, express happiness, and uphold traditions that live on in the hearts of Egyptians no matter how times change.
Sources:
Egyptian State Information Service
Al-Ahram Portal
National Media Authority
