Selfies as well as Chanting as People of Ethiopia Celebrate Thanksgiving

A multitude of colorfully attired attendees assembled in central Ethiopia's capital for the yearly thanksgiving festival this weekend.

Irreecha is observed by the Oromo people, the biggest population group, and takes place at the conclusion of the land's major monsoon period.

Every year, festival-goers assemble around holy rivers and lakes to give thanks to their higher powers for the fertile landscape that the precipitation have provided.

"I have participated in Irreecha for the previous nine years," commented young adult one attendee.

"In my view, this event embodies my heritage, it showcases the dignity and greatness of my ethnic group."

Men, ladies, the elderly and the youth all participate, adorned in attention-grabbing garments and accessories.

They sing, move rhythmically, tell tales and deposit newly gathered green plants and blossoms in liquid - symbolizing vitality, renewal and hope.

Global Attendance

The celebration does not only attract participants from all regions of Ethiopia, visitors come from globally.

"I visited last year - it was wonderful, so spectacular, I invited my offspring with me currently," mentioned one visitor, hailing from Belfast in Northern Ireland.

"It's wonderful. All people wants to say hello, all attendees shows warmth and says welcome."

Festival Timeline

The initial day of the event was held on recently in the capital. On Sunday, celebrants made their way to Bishoftu, a community close to the main city.

Although the festival has its roots in indigenous faith systems, it is now observed by the majority of the community, regardless of their belief system.

Contemporary Changes

In the recent years, the number of individuals attending the event has expanded substantially. This is partly due to the expansion of digital platforms, where many young people document their clothing, dance moves and singing during the celebration.

Previous Significance

In the earlier times, this event was used as a venue for public dissent - the ethnic group have historically expressed concerns about social exclusion.

However, the recent event took place calmly, with an priority on joy, solidarity and cultural pride.