Snapshots along with Melodies as Ethiopian Citizens Observe Thanksgiving
Tens of thousands of colorfully attired Ethiopians converged in downtown Ethiopia's capital for the annual Irreecha event during recent days.
The festival is observed by the Oromo people, Ethiopia's largest ethnic group, and takes place at the end of the land's major monsoon period.
Every year, festival-goers come together around revered water bodies to give thanks to their divine beings for the lush vegetation that the rains have brought.
"I've attended Irreecha for the previous nine years," mentioned young adult Moata Abdulmajid.
"For me, Irreecha embodies my cultural background, it demonstrates the honor and importance of my community."
Males, females, the senior citizens and the young all take part, ornamented in attention-grabbing clothes and ornaments.
They chant, perform traditional dances, exchange narratives and deposit freshly cut foliage and blossoms in liquid - representing vitality, regeneration and hope.
Worldwide Presence
The celebration does not only attract individuals from across Ethiopia, attendees come from internationally.
"I came the previous year - it was so good, so spectacular, I brought along my kids with me this year," expressed Claire, originating from abroad.
"It is amazing. Everyone welcomes you, each person shows warmth and says welcome."
Festival Timeline
The initial day of the festival occurred on Saturday in the main city. On Sunday, festival-goers travelled to Bishoftu, a community near the capital.
While this celebration has its origins in indigenous faith systems, it is now observed by the bulk of the Oromo people, without consideration for their religion.
Contemporary Developments
In the recent years, the number of individuals attending the festival has expanded substantially. This is in part thanks to the growth of digital platforms, where many younger generation document their outfits, dance moves and singing during the celebration.
Historical Background
In the earlier times, this event was used as a platform for political demonstrations - the ethnic group have historically expressed concerns about social exclusion.
Nonetheless, the recent event unfolded peacefully, with an emphasis on celebration, togetherness and cultural pride.
