In al-Ahrām, Usāmah Siddīq writes about the Coptic celebrations in Virgin Mary Monastery in Asyut govenrorate marking the anniversary of the visit of the holy family after they fled Palestine.

The celebrations, lasting for fifteen days (from the 7th to the 22nd of August) consist of different religious rituals, singing of hymns and theatre performances on a stage specially built for the occasion.  

The monastery itself is a famous site in Egypt, attracting millions of visitors every year, both from abroad and from within Egypt.