Photos as well as Singing as Ethiopian Citizens Celebrate Thanksgiving
A multitude of colorfully attired participants converged in central Addis Ababa for the traditional Irreecha event over the past days.
Irreecha is honored by the Oromo community, Ethiopia's largest ethnic group, and is held at the conclusion of the land's major wet season.
Each year, celebrants come together around revered rivers and lakes to give thanks to their divine beings for the fertile landscape that the rains have brought.
"I've attended the festival for the last nine years," stated 25-year-old one attendee.
"In my view, the celebration symbolizes my cultural background, it showcases the pride and significance of my people."
Males, females, the elderly and the young all participate, decorated in eye-catching garments and accessories.
They sing, move rhythmically, share stories and place freshly cut grass and blossoms in water - representing vitality, rebirth and aspiration.
Worldwide Participation
The celebration does not only attract participants from all regions of Ethiopia, attendees fly in from internationally.
"I attended a year ago - the experience was amazing, so beautiful, I brought along my children with me currently," said an international guest, originating from Belfast in Northern Ireland.
"It is amazing. All people greets you, all attendees offers affection and offers greetings."
Festival Program
The initial day of the festival was held on recently in the main city. On the following day, celebrants travelled to Bishoftu, a community near the urban center.
Even though the festival has its roots in native spiritual practices, it is now celebrated by the bulk of Oromos, irrespective of their faith.
Recent Changes
In the recent years, the quantity of participants attending the event has expanded substantially. This is partially because of the growth of online networks, where numerous younger generation document their clothing, traditional dances and musical expressions during the gathering.
Historical Background
In the previous years, Irreecha was functioned as a venue for anti-government protests - the Oromo people have long complained about political and economic marginalisation.
Nonetheless, the latest gathering unfolded peacefully, with an emphasis on joy, solidarity and heritage appreciation.
