Photos as well as Singing as Ethiopian Citizens Observe Annual Thanksgiving
A multitude of vibrantly dressed Ethiopians assembled in the heart of Ethiopia's capital for the traditional gratitude celebration during recent days.
Irreecha is observed by the Oromo, the predominant population group, and is held at the end of the nation's primary monsoon period.
Every year, participants assemble around revered water bodies to express gratitude to their higher powers for the greenery that the rainy season have brought.
"I've attended the festival for the previous nine years," stated 25-year-old Moata Abdulmajid.
"In my view, the celebration embodies my identity, it demonstrates the dignity and greatness of my community."
Males, women, the senior citizens and the youth all join in, decorated in striking clothes and jewellery.
They vocalize, move rhythmically, exchange narratives and place recently harvested green plants and flowers in water - denoting existence, rebirth and aspiration.
Global Attendance
The celebration brings in individuals from across Ethiopia, attendees fly in from around the world.
"I attended last year - it was so good, so beautiful, I brought along my kids with me this year," expressed one visitor, from Northern Ireland.
"It's incredible. All people welcomes you, all attendees wants to give you a kiss and says welcome."
Celebration Schedule
The opening day of the celebration took place on recently in the main city. On the next day, celebrants journeyed to Bishoftu, a community just outside the urban center.
Although this celebration has its roots in traditional beliefs, it is now practiced by the majority of the community, without consideration for their belief system.
Modern Developments
In the last ten years, the number of people attending the celebration has expanded substantially. This is in part thanks to the growth of online networks, where many youth document their clothing, dance moves and vocal performances during the celebration.
Past Significance
In the previous years, the festival was functioned as a platform for anti-government protests - the Oromo community have historically expressed concerns about social exclusion.
However, the recent event took place calmly, with an priority on joy, unity and ethnic identity.
