Photos as well as Melodies as People of Ethiopia Observe Thanksgiving
A multitude of colorfully attired Ethiopians gathered in downtown Addis Ababa for the annual Irreecha event this weekend.
The festival is honored by the Oromo, Ethiopia's largest ethnic group, and is held at the end of the land's primary wet season.
Annually, participants gather around revered rivers and lakes to give thanks to their creators for the greenery that the rainy season have delivered.
"I have participated in the festival for the last nine years," mentioned twenty-five-year-old a participant.
"For me, the celebration represents my cultural background, it reflects the honor and greatness of my community."
Males, ladies, the elderly and the younger generation all take part, adorned in attention-grabbing garments and accessories.
They sing, perform traditional dances, tell tales and arrange recently harvested grass and floral arrangements in the water - representing existence, regeneration and aspiration.
Global Participation
This festival not only draws participants from across Ethiopia, guests come from around the world.
"I visited last year - it was so good, so magnificent, I brought along my offspring with me this year," said Claire, hailing from Belfast in Northern Ireland.
"It's wonderful. Everyone greets you, all attendees shows warmth and says welcome."
Celebration Schedule
The opening day of the event was held on Saturday in Addis Ababa. On the next day, celebrants travelled to a nearby town, a community near the urban center.
Even though this celebration has its origins in traditional beliefs, it is now celebrated by the larger part of the community, without consideration for their faith.
Modern Changes
In the past decade, the number of participants joining the celebration has grown significantly. This is in part thanks to the growth of digital platforms, where numerous young people capture their attire, dancing and singing during the celebration.
Previous Significance
In the earlier times, this event was functioned as a venue for political demonstrations - the ethnic group have long complained about political and economic marginalisation.
Nonetheless, the latest gathering took place calmly, with an emphasis on happiness, unity and heritage appreciation.
