Snapshots and Chanting as Ethiopian Citizens Celebrate Annual Thanksgiving
A multitude of colorfully attired Ethiopians converged in central Addis Ababa for the annual Irreecha event over the past days.
The festival is celebrated by the Oromo people, the predominant population group, and takes place at the end of the country's major rainy season.
Each year, participants come together around sacred rivers and lakes to show appreciation to their higher powers for the fertile landscape that the rains have brought.
"I've been celebrating the festival for the past nine years," mentioned 25-year-old one attendee.
"In my view, the celebration represents my identity, it reflects the dignity and significance of my ethnic group."
Gentlemen, ladies, the elderly and the youth all take part, ornamented in attention-grabbing garments and accessories.
They sing, perform traditional dances, share stories and deposit freshly cut foliage and flowers in the water - denoting life, regeneration and hope.
Worldwide Participation
The celebration not only draws people from all regions of Ethiopia, visitors travel from globally.
"I visited a year ago - it was so good, so magnificent, I brought my offspring with me currently," expressed Claire, originating from abroad.
"It's incredible. Everybody greets you, all attendees wants to give you a kiss and expresses hospitality."
Event Schedule
The initial day of the event took place on the weekend in the main city. On Sunday, participants travelled to a nearby town, a small town near the main city.
While the festival has its origins in traditional beliefs, it is now observed by the larger part of the Oromo people, irrespective of their faith.
Modern Changes
In the last ten years, the number of participants participating in the event has increased dramatically. This is in part thanks to the expansion of social media, where various youth document their outfits, traditional dances and singing during the festival.
Historical Significance
In the past, Irreecha was functioned as a venue for public dissent - the ethnic group have consistently raised issues about political and economic marginalisation.
However, this year's celebration took place calmly, with an focus on celebration, togetherness and heritage appreciation.
