Photos along with Chanting as Ethiopian Citizens Observe Annual Thanksgiving
A multitude of vibrantly dressed participants gathered in the heart of Ethiopia's capital for the annual thanksgiving festival over the past days.
The festival is observed by the Oromo people, Ethiopia's largest population group, and takes place at the completion of the land's major rainy season.
Each year, celebrants come together around sacred natural water sources to give thanks to their higher powers for the fertile landscape that the rains have brought.
"I have participated in Irreecha for the previous nine years," stated young adult a participant.
"To me, this event represents my heritage, it showcases the honor and significance of my people."
Men, women, the older generation and the youth all join in, ornamented in eye-catching attire and jewellery.
They chant, move rhythmically, share stories and place recently harvested grass and flowers in water - denoting life, regeneration and hope.
International Presence
Irreecha does not only attract participants from across Ethiopia, attendees fly in from globally.
"I came a year ago - the experience was amazing, so beautiful, I brought along my children with me this year," expressed Claire, from Northern Ireland.
"It's wonderful. All people wants to say hello, all attendees shows warmth and says welcome."
Festival Program
The opening day of the festival was held on recently in the capital. On Sunday, participants made their way to a provincial location, a small town close to the urban center.
Even though this celebration has its origins in native spiritual practices, it is now observed by the larger part of the community, regardless of their belief system.
Modern Changes
In the recent years, the figure of people attending the celebration has expanded substantially. This is partly due to the expansion of social media, where numerous younger generation record their outfits, dancing and musical expressions during the gathering.
Previous Context
In the past, this event was used as a stage for anti-government protests - the Oromo community have consistently raised issues about social exclusion.
However, the latest gathering took place calmly, with an focus on joy, solidarity and ethnic identity.
