Photos along with Singing as Ethiopian Citizens Mark Annual Thanksgiving
Countless individuals of colorfully attired Ethiopians converged in central Addis Ababa for the yearly Irreecha event during recent days.
This thanksgiving celebration is honored by the Oromo community, Ethiopia's largest community, and is held at the conclusion of the nation's primary rainy season.
Annually, participants assemble around holy water bodies to show appreciation to their divine beings for the fertile landscape that the rainy season have brought.
"I've attended Irreecha for the past nine years," commented 25-year-old a participant.
"For me, Irreecha symbolizes my cultural background, it reflects the pride and importance of my people."
Males, ladies, the older generation and the youth all take part, ornamented in attention-grabbing garments and ornaments.
They sing, move rhythmically, tell tales and place freshly cut green plants and flowers in liquid - representing vitality, renewal and hope.
Global Attendance
This festival brings in participants from across Ethiopia, attendees come from around the world.
"I visited last year - it was wonderful, so beautiful, I brought along my children with me currently," mentioned Claire, originating from Belfast in Northern Ireland.
"It is amazing. Everyone welcomes you, each person wants to give you a kiss and expresses hospitality."
Event Timeline
The opening day of the festival took place on Saturday in the capital. On Sunday, celebrants travelled to a provincial location, a settlement near the main city.
Even though the festival has its roots in native spiritual practices, it is now practiced by the majority of the community, irrespective of their faith.
Contemporary Trends
In the recent years, the quantity of participants attending the celebration has grown significantly. This is in part thanks to the expansion of online networks, where many young people document their clothing, dance moves and singing during the festival.
Past Significance
In the earlier times, the festival was used as a venue for political demonstrations - the Oromo people have historically expressed concerns about systemic disadvantages.
Nevertheless, this year's celebration proceeded harmoniously, with an emphasis on joy, togetherness and ethnic identity.
