Selfies as well as Chanting as Ethiopian Citizens Observe Annual Thanksgiving
Countless individuals of vibrantly dressed participants gathered in downtown Ethiopia's capital for the yearly gratitude celebration over the past days.
Irreecha is honored by the Oromo people, the biggest population group, and occurs at the end of the nation's primary wet season.
Every year, participants come together around holy natural water sources to give thanks to their higher powers for the lush vegetation that the rains have brought.
"I've attended the festival for the past nine years," commented 25-year-old Moata Abdulmajid.
"In my view, the celebration embodies my heritage, it reflects the pride and importance of my community."
Men, women, the older generation and the young all take part, ornamented in eye-catching attire and jewellery.
They chant, dance, exchange narratives and deposit newly gathered grass and blossoms in the water - symbolizing vitality, regeneration and hope.
Global Attendance
This festival does not only attract participants from all regions of Ethiopia, attendees come from internationally.
"I visited the previous year - it was wonderful, so beautiful, I invited my kids with me now," said one visitor, hailing from abroad.
"It's incredible. Everybody wants to say hello, everyone shows warmth and says welcome."
Event Program
The initial day of the festival was held on recently in Addis Ababa. On the next day, celebrants journeyed to Bishoftu, a settlement near the urban center.
Although Irreecha has its roots in indigenous faith systems, it is now observed by the larger part of Oromos, regardless of their faith.
Recent Trends
In the recent years, the number of individuals attending the celebration has grown significantly. This is partly due to the expansion of digital platforms, where numerous young people record their attire, dancing and vocal performances during the festival.
Past Background
In the past, Irreecha was served as a venue for public dissent - the ethnic group have historically expressed concerns about social exclusion.
Nevertheless, this year's celebration proceeded harmoniously, with an focus on happiness, togetherness and ethnic identity.
