Snapshots and Singing as People of Ethiopia Mark Annual Thanksgiving

A multitude of vibrantly dressed Ethiopians gathered in downtown Addis Ababa for the annual Irreecha event this weekend.

This thanksgiving celebration is observed by the Oromo community, Ethiopia's largest ethnic group, and is held at the completion of the country's main wet season.

Each year, festival-goers assemble around revered water bodies to give thanks to their higher powers for the greenery that the precipitation have provided.

"I have participated in Irreecha for the past nine years," commented young adult one attendee.

"To me, this event represents my heritage, it demonstrates the honor and greatness of my ethnic group."

Men, women, the elderly and the youth all join in, adorned in eye-catching clothes and accessories.

They sing, move rhythmically, tell tales and deposit freshly cut green plants and flowers in liquid - symbolizing life, rebirth and optimism.

International Presence

The celebration not only draws participants from throughout the country, attendees come from internationally.

"I visited a year ago - it was wonderful, so spectacular, I invited my kids with me now," expressed one visitor, hailing from Belfast in Northern Ireland.

"It's incredible. All people welcomes you, everyone wants to give you a kiss and says welcome."

Event Schedule

The first day of the celebration took place on Saturday in Addis Ababa. On the next day, festival-goers travelled to a provincial location, a small town just outside the capital.

While this celebration has its origins in traditional beliefs, it is now practiced by the majority of the community, regardless of their religion.

Contemporary Changes

In the recent years, the quantity of individuals attending the festival has increased dramatically. This is partially because of the rise of digital platforms, where various youth record their clothing, traditional dances and musical expressions during the gathering.

Past Background

In the past, Irreecha was functioned as a stage for anti-government protests - the Oromo community have historically expressed concerns about systemic disadvantages.

However, this year's celebration unfolded peacefully, with an priority on joy, togetherness and cultural pride.