Selfies and Melodies as People of Ethiopia Observe Annual Thanksgiving
Tens of thousands of vibrantly dressed attendees assembled in central Addis Ababa for the annual Irreecha event over the past days.
This thanksgiving celebration is honored by the Oromo people, the predominant ethnic group, and is held at the conclusion of the land's major wet season.
Annually, celebrants come together around revered rivers and lakes to give thanks to their divine beings for the lush vegetation that the rains have provided.
"I've been celebrating Irreecha for the last nine years," commented young adult one attendee.
"For me, Irreecha represents my heritage, it showcases the honor and significance of my ethnic group."
Males, females, the senior citizens and the young all participate, decorated in attention-grabbing clothes and jewellery.
They sing, move rhythmically, share stories and arrange recently harvested green plants and flowers in the water - representing vitality, rebirth and optimism.
International Attendance
The celebration does not only attract people from all regions of Ethiopia, attendees fly in from globally.
"I came last year - it was wonderful, so beautiful, I invited my offspring with me this year," mentioned Claire, from abroad.
"It is amazing. Everyone wants to say hello, all attendees wants to give you a kiss and offers greetings."
Event Timeline
The opening day of the event took place on the weekend in the capital. On the following day, festival-goers travelled to a nearby town, a settlement near the urban center.
Although the festival has its roots in native spiritual practices, it is now observed by the larger part of the community, regardless of their faith.
Recent Trends
In the past decade, the quantity of people participating in the event has increased dramatically. This is partly due to the growth of digital platforms, where various younger generation record their attire, traditional dances and vocal performances during the festival.
Past Context
In the earlier times, this event was used as a stage for anti-government protests - the ethnic group have long complained about political and economic marginalisation.
Nonetheless, the latest gathering took place calmly, with an priority on joy, solidarity and cultural pride.
