Photos and Singing as People of Ethiopia Celebrate Annual Thanksgiving
Countless individuals of colorfully attired attendees converged in central the city center for the annual thanksgiving festival this weekend.
The festival is observed by the Oromo community, the biggest ethnic group, and occurs at the completion of the nation's main monsoon period.
Each year, festival-goers come together around revered natural water sources to give thanks to their higher powers for the fertile landscape that the rainy season have delivered.
"I have participated in this celebration for the past nine years," commented twenty-five-year-old a participant.
"To me, Irreecha represents my heritage, it reflects the pride and greatness of my ethnic group."
Men, women, the elderly and the younger generation all participate, ornamented in eye-catching clothes and ornaments.
They chant, move rhythmically, exchange narratives and place freshly cut green plants and blossoms in liquid - symbolizing life, rebirth and hope.
Worldwide Presence
The celebration not only draws participants from across Ethiopia, visitors come from around the world.
"I attended the previous year - the experience was amazing, so beautiful, I invited my offspring with me now," said an international guest, from abroad.
"It's wonderful. Everyone greets you, all attendees offers affection and says welcome."
Event Schedule
The first day of the celebration took place on recently in the capital. On the following day, festival-goers journeyed to a nearby town, a community close to the capital.
Although Irreecha has its foundations in traditional beliefs, it is now celebrated by the majority of Oromos, regardless of their faith.
Recent Trends
In the last ten years, the number of people joining the event has expanded substantially. This is in part thanks to the expansion of online networks, where numerous youth document their outfits, dancing and musical expressions during the festival.
Historical Significance
In the earlier times, this event was used as a stage for political demonstrations - the Oromo people have historically expressed concerns about social exclusion.
Nevertheless, the latest gathering unfolded peacefully, with an emphasis on joy, unity and cultural pride.
