Photos and Singing as People of Ethiopia Celebrate Thanksgiving
Tens of thousands of colorfully attired participants gathered in the heart of Ethiopia's capital for the traditional Irreecha event during recent days.
The festival is celebrated by the Oromo, Ethiopia's largest community, and is held at the conclusion of the nation's main rainy season.
Each year, participants come together around sacred natural water sources to express gratitude to their creators for the fertile landscape that the rains have brought.
"I've been celebrating this celebration for the last nine years," stated young adult Moata Abdulmajid.
"For me, this event embodies my identity, it demonstrates the pride and significance of my people."
Gentlemen, women, the older generation and the young all join in, adorned in eye-catching attire and ornaments.
They vocalize, dance, tell tales and deposit recently harvested green plants and flowers in the water - representing life, regeneration and aspiration.
International Presence
This festival does not only attract individuals from throughout the country, attendees fly in from internationally.
"I came a year ago - it was so good, so spectacular, I brought my children with me this year," said one visitor, originating from abroad.
"It is amazing. All people wants to say hello, each person shows warmth and offers greetings."
Event Schedule
The opening day of the celebration was held on Saturday in the capital. On Sunday, celebrants travelled to a provincial location, a settlement close to the main city.
Even though Irreecha has its origins in traditional beliefs, it is now practiced by the larger part of the Oromo people, without consideration for their belief system.
Contemporary Trends
In the recent years, the figure of people participating in the festival has increased dramatically. This is in part thanks to the expansion of social media, where many young people document their attire, dance moves and vocal performances during the celebration.
Previous Background
In the past, Irreecha was used as a stage for political demonstrations - the Oromo people have consistently raised issues about systemic disadvantages.
Nonetheless, the recent event unfolded peacefully, with an priority on joy, togetherness and cultural pride.
