Merry Christmas once again! The Middle East is a region of many Christmases. 

There's Western Christmas on Dec. 25, then comes Armenian Christmas on Jan. 6 and last – but certainly not least – Coptic Christmas is celebrated on Jan. 7.

Coptic Christians make up about 10 percent of Egypt's population, meaning Jan. 7 is a big day for the Arab world's most populous country.

Copts also have a sizeable presence in Libya and Sudan, as well as small communities in Lebanon, the United Arab Emirates, Jordan, Tunisia, Morocco and Algeria.

Here are 6 interesting things to know about Coptic Christmas.

1. Copts fast before Christmas for 43 days

From Nov. 25 to Jan. 6, Copts maintain a vegan fast.

They call this the "The Holy Nativity Fast." As is the case with Ramadan for Muslims, those who are ill or weak are excused from fasting.

2. Special praise songs are sung in the days leading up to Christmas

During the month prior to Christmas, Copts sing special praise songs on Saturday evenings. This month is called Kiahk.

3. Christmas eve is a big deal for Copts

On Jan. 6, Copts gather together at churches for a special liturgy service. Normally this begins around 10:30 p.m.

The service ends at midnight, but many churchgoers hang around into the early hours of the morning. It turns into something of a social gathering. 

4. And then the fast is broken!

After 43 long days, Copts can go back to eating meat. It's time for festive binging. 

People generally gather together to eat a large meal, with copious amounts of meat, eggs and butter to make up for lost time. 

Fata is the most popular dish on this table. This is a lamb dish with bread, rice and garlic.

5. Children wait for Baba Noël

In Egypt, Santa Claus is Baba Noël (which translates to Father Christmas). Children often leave kahk out of their houses at night, hoping he will find his way through their windows and leave some gifts.

6. Muslims celebrate Coptic Christmas, too!

The majority of Egypt's population is Muslim. Still, many Muslims make an event out of celebrating Christmas with their Christian neighbors. From Christmas trees, to decorations and special gatherings, the holiday really takes over the country. 

Despite what some think, Christmas is, in fact, a very popular holiday throughout much of the Arab world.

So, Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good night!