Selfies as well as Chanting as Ethiopians Mark Annual Thanksgiving
Countless individuals of colorfully attired attendees assembled in central the city center for the yearly Irreecha event during recent days.
This thanksgiving celebration is celebrated by the Oromo community, Ethiopia's largest community, and is held at the conclusion of the land's primary wet season.
Annually, participants come together around sacred natural water sources to show appreciation to their creators for the fertile landscape that the rains have provided.
"I've been celebrating this celebration for the past nine years," mentioned young adult one attendee.
"In my view, this event represents my identity, it demonstrates the pride and importance of my ethnic group."
Gentlemen, ladies, the elderly and the youth all join in, adorned in eye-catching clothes and accessories.
They sing, move rhythmically, share stories and deposit freshly cut green plants and floral arrangements in water - symbolizing vitality, regeneration and aspiration.
Worldwide Attendance
This festival not only draws people from throughout the country, guests come from globally.
"I attended a year ago - it was so good, so beautiful, I brought along my children with me now," mentioned Claire, from abroad.
"It's incredible. Everyone greets you, each person wants to give you a kiss and expresses hospitality."
Event Schedule
The initial day of the celebration took place on recently in the capital. On the following day, participants journeyed to a provincial location, a settlement just outside the urban center.
Even though the festival has its foundations in indigenous faith systems, it is now practiced by the larger part of Oromos, regardless of their faith.
Contemporary Developments
In the last ten years, the quantity of people joining the festival has expanded substantially. This is in part thanks to the rise of social media, where many young people record their attire, traditional dances and singing during the festival.
Historical Significance
In the previous years, the festival was served as a venue for anti-government protests - the ethnic group have long complained about social exclusion.
However, the latest gathering took place calmly, with an priority on celebration, togetherness and ethnic identity.
