Selfies along with Melodies as People of Ethiopia Observe Annual Thanksgiving
A multitude of colorfully attired Ethiopians assembled in downtown Ethiopia's capital for the annual thanksgiving festival this weekend.
The festival is celebrated by the Oromo, the predominant population group, and occurs at the completion of the nation's main rainy season.
Each year, celebrants gather around holy natural water sources to show appreciation to their creators for the fertile landscape that the precipitation have delivered.
"I have participated in Irreecha for the past nine years," mentioned young adult a participant.
"To me, Irreecha represents my cultural background, it demonstrates the pride and importance of my community."
Gentlemen, women, the elderly and the young all participate, ornamented in attention-grabbing clothes and accessories.
They sing, perform traditional dances, tell tales and arrange recently harvested foliage and blossoms in water - denoting existence, renewal and hope.
Worldwide Presence
This festival not only draws individuals from throughout the country, guests come from internationally.
"I attended a year ago - the experience was amazing, so beautiful, I brought my children with me currently," mentioned Claire, from abroad.
"It is amazing. All people wants to say hello, each person offers affection and offers greetings."
Festival Timeline
The opening day of the event took place on recently in the capital. On the following day, festival-goers travelled to Bishoftu, a small town close to the main city.
While this celebration has its origins in traditional beliefs, it is now observed by the majority of the community, without consideration for their faith.
Modern Developments
In the last ten years, the figure of individuals joining the event has grown significantly. This is partially because of the expansion of social media, where many younger generation document their outfits, dancing and musical expressions during the gathering.
Previous Background
In the past, Irreecha was used as a platform for political demonstrations - the ethnic group have historically expressed concerns about social exclusion.
However, this year's celebration proceeded harmoniously, with an focus on happiness, solidarity and heritage appreciation.
