Selfies as well as Chanting as Ethiopian Citizens Observe Gratitude Festival
A multitude of vibrantly dressed Ethiopians assembled in downtown Ethiopia's capital for the annual Irreecha event this weekend.
The festival is celebrated by the Oromo community, the biggest ethnic group, and occurs at the conclusion of the country's primary monsoon period.
Annually, celebrants assemble around sacred rivers and lakes to express gratitude to their creators for the greenery that the rains have provided.
"I've attended the festival for the previous nine years," commented young adult a participant.
"To me, Irreecha represents my identity, it reflects the pride and greatness of my community."
Gentlemen, ladies, the elderly and the younger generation all join in, decorated in eye-catching clothes and ornaments.
They sing, perform traditional dances, exchange narratives and arrange newly gathered grass and flowers in the water - denoting life, regeneration and optimism.
Worldwide Participation
This festival brings in individuals from across Ethiopia, guests fly in from globally.
"I visited last year - it was so good, so magnificent, I brought along my kids with me this year," said one visitor, from Northern Ireland.
"It's incredible. All people welcomes you, each person wants to give you a kiss and expresses hospitality."
Celebration Timeline
The initial day of the celebration was held on recently in the main city. On the next day, participants journeyed to a provincial location, a settlement just outside the urban center.
Even though this celebration has its roots in indigenous faith systems, it is now celebrated by the majority of Oromos, without consideration for their belief system.
Modern Trends
In the last ten years, the number of participants attending the festival has expanded substantially. This is in part thanks to the growth of digital platforms, where numerous younger generation record their attire, traditional dances and singing during the celebration.
Past Significance
In the previous years, Irreecha was served as a venue for political demonstrations - the Oromo community have historically expressed concerns about social exclusion.
Nonetheless, the recent event took place calmly, with an emphasis on joy, togetherness and heritage appreciation.
