Egypt Hosts Russian Unity Day Carnival in Cairo

A large Russian Unity Day celebration took place in Cairo under Egyptian patronage, organised by the Egyptian-Russian Friendship Association and the Coordinating Council of Russian Expatriates in Egypt, in cooperation with the Russian House in Cairo.

The event, held under the theme “We Will Live Together in Unity and Friendship,” brought together around 500 guests and 200 performers. It was opened by Dr. Vadim Zaitchikov, director of the Russian Cultural Centers in Egypt, who highlighted that Russia’s Unity Day, marked every November, is one of the country’s most significant national holidays, symbolizing the cohesion of Russia’s diverse ethnic groups and the strength of its multi-cultural, multi-religious state.

The celebration was attended by Denis Shakirov, a member of the government council of Tatarstan; Artur Sabirov, director of Tatarstan’s Social Fund; Dr. Ibrahim Kamel, president of the Egyptian-Russian Friendship Association; and Larisa Razova, deputy head of the Russian community in Egypt.

Olga Pskelina, head of the Russian community in Egypt, noted that the carnival-style celebration featured participants from Cairo, Alexandria, Hurghada, Sharm El-Sheikh, and El-Dabaa, along with 11 artistic troupes.

She emphasized that the event reflected the strong ties between Russian expatriates and their homeland, while also showcasing the welcoming environment Egypt provides for its Russian community.

Dr. Ibrahim Kamel described the celebration as part of broader cooperation with the Russian community and expressed hopes for expanded collaboration in the coming period.

The carnival featured a crafts exhibition representing various Russian regions, alongside displays from Egypt, Belarus and Armenia. Guests enjoyed traditional Russian cuisine and took part in artistic workshops conducted by Russian and Egyptian artists.

From the Egyptian-Russian Friendship Association, artist Ahmed Gweiba presented a “light drawing” workshop, while artist Maha El-Gendy led a session titled “Color the History of Egypt.” Singer Catherine Nazmi also performed.

The Russian House’s Kalinka troupe, under Luiza Bledjiants, performed a song in ancient Egyptian to mark the opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum and presented a photo exhibition on traditional Russian attire curated by artist Olesya Breshtel.

From Hurghada, the Elite ensemble led by Elena Malikova performed a selection of Russian folk songs. The artistic program was supervised by Russian director Larisa Lyabin.

The carnival, hosted at the Russian House in Cairo, ran from morning until 6 p.m., filling the venue with music, food, crafts and cultural showcases celebrating Russian heritage within Egypt.