Snapshots along with Melodies as Ethiopian Citizens Mark Annual Thanksgiving
A multitude of vibrantly dressed attendees assembled in downtown Addis Ababa for the traditional thanksgiving festival over the past days.
Irreecha is honored by the Oromo, Ethiopia's largest population group, and takes place at the end of the country's primary wet season.
Every year, festival-goers come together around holy rivers and lakes to give thanks to their creators for the greenery that the precipitation have provided.
"I've been celebrating this celebration for the previous nine years," commented young adult Moata Abdulmajid.
"To me, Irreecha embodies my identity, it showcases the pride and greatness of my ethnic group."
Gentlemen, females, the older generation and the young all take part, adorned in striking attire and ornaments.
They sing, dance, exchange narratives and arrange freshly cut grass and flowers in liquid - symbolizing life, renewal and aspiration.
Worldwide Presence
The celebration does not only attract individuals from throughout the country, attendees come from internationally.
"I attended a year ago - it was so good, so beautiful, I brought my children with me now," said Claire, from Northern Ireland.
"It is amazing. All people welcomes you, all attendees shows warmth and offers greetings."
Celebration Timeline
The initial day of the celebration was held on Saturday in the capital. On Sunday, festival-goers journeyed to a provincial location, a settlement close to the main city.
Although the festival has its origins in native spiritual practices, it is now observed by the bulk of the Oromo people, regardless of their faith.
Recent Developments
In the recent years, the figure of individuals attending the festival has grown significantly. This is in part thanks to the rise of digital platforms, where various youth capture their outfits, dancing and musical expressions during the celebration.
Past Significance
In the previous years, the festival was used as a venue for political demonstrations - the Oromo people have consistently raised issues about social exclusion.
Nevertheless, this year's celebration unfolded peacefully, with an focus on joy, togetherness and cultural pride.
