Photos along with Singing as Ethiopian Citizens Observe Gratitude Festival
Countless individuals of vibrantly dressed Ethiopians assembled in downtown Addis Ababa for the yearly thanksgiving festival over the past days.
Irreecha is celebrated by the Oromo, the predominant population group, and is held at the end of the country's primary rainy season.
Each year, celebrants gather around revered water bodies to give thanks to their creators for the greenery that the rains have delivered.
"I've attended the festival for the last nine years," stated young adult one attendee.
"To me, this event represents my heritage, it showcases the pride and importance of my people."
Men, women, the senior citizens and the younger generation all join in, adorned in striking clothes and ornaments.
They vocalize, perform traditional dances, exchange narratives and place freshly cut grass and blossoms in water - representing vitality, renewal and aspiration.
Global Presence
Irreecha does not only attract individuals from across Ethiopia, attendees come from globally.
"I came the previous year - the experience was amazing, so spectacular, I invited my children with me now," expressed Claire, from Belfast in Northern Ireland.
"It's incredible. Everybody greets you, all attendees offers affection and expresses hospitality."
Festival Timeline
The opening day of the festival took place on Saturday in the capital. On Sunday, participants made their way to a nearby town, a small town near the main city.
Although Irreecha has its roots in indigenous faith systems, it is now celebrated by the majority of the Oromo people, without consideration for their religion.
Recent Changes
In the last ten years, the figure of individuals attending the event has grown significantly. This is partially because of the rise of social media, where many younger generation record their clothing, dancing and singing during the gathering.
Past Background
In the previous years, this event was served as a stage for anti-government protests - the Oromo people have historically expressed concerns about political and economic marginalisation.
Nevertheless, the latest gathering unfolded peacefully, with an focus on celebration, solidarity and ethnic identity.
