Snapshots as well as Chanting as Ethiopian Citizens Celebrate Thanksgiving
A multitude of colorfully attired Ethiopians gathered in the heart of the city center for the annual thanksgiving festival over the past days.
Irreecha is observed by the Oromo community, Ethiopia's largest population group, and is held at the completion of the land's major rainy season.
Each year, celebrants assemble around sacred water bodies to show appreciation to their higher powers for the greenery that the rains have delivered.
"I have participated in the festival for the last nine years," mentioned 25-year-old a participant.
"To me, Irreecha embodies my heritage, it showcases the dignity and importance of my ethnic group."
Men, ladies, the senior citizens and the young all participate, decorated in striking attire and accessories.
They vocalize, dance, tell tales and arrange newly gathered grass and blossoms in the water - representing vitality, regeneration and optimism.
Global Presence
This festival does not only attract people from across Ethiopia, guests come from internationally.
"I attended last year - it was so good, so spectacular, I brought my kids with me currently," said an international guest, hailing from abroad.
"It's wonderful. All people greets you, each person offers affection and says welcome."
Event Schedule
The initial day of the event was held on Saturday in the main city. On the following day, participants journeyed to Bishoftu, a community just outside the capital.
Even though Irreecha has its foundations in native spiritual practices, it is now practiced by the bulk of Oromos, regardless of their belief system.
Modern Changes
In the past decade, the figure of individuals joining the celebration has expanded substantially. This is partly due to the expansion of digital platforms, where various younger generation capture their outfits, dancing and singing during the festival.
Previous Context
In the earlier times, this event was served as a venue for public dissent - the Oromo people have consistently raised issues about social exclusion.
Nevertheless, the latest gathering proceeded harmoniously, with an priority on celebration, solidarity and heritage appreciation.
