Snapshots and Melodies as People of Ethiopia Celebrate Gratitude Festival
Tens of thousands of colorfully attired attendees gathered in central Addis Ababa for the yearly Irreecha event over the past days.
This thanksgiving celebration is honored by the Oromo, Ethiopia's largest ethnic group, and is held at the end of the nation's major rainy season.
Every year, festival-goers gather around holy rivers and lakes to give thanks to their higher powers for the greenery that the rains have provided.
"I have participated in this celebration for the last nine years," mentioned twenty-five-year-old a participant.
"For me, Irreecha symbolizes my identity, it showcases the dignity and importance of my community."
Men, females, the senior citizens and the younger generation all join in, ornamented in striking attire and jewellery.
They sing, perform traditional dances, tell tales and deposit freshly cut green plants and flowers in water - representing life, renewal and hope.
International Participation
The celebration does not only attract individuals from all regions of Ethiopia, guests travel from globally.
"I visited a year ago - it was wonderful, so beautiful, I brought along my children with me currently," mentioned an international guest, originating from Northern Ireland.
"It is amazing. All people welcomes you, everyone offers affection and expresses hospitality."
Celebration Program
The initial day of the festival was held on Saturday in the capital. On the next day, festival-goers travelled to a provincial location, a small town close to the main city.
While Irreecha has its foundations in native spiritual practices, it is now practiced by the majority of the community, regardless of their religion.
Contemporary Trends
In the recent years, the quantity of individuals attending the festival has increased dramatically. This is in part thanks to the rise of digital platforms, where many younger generation document their outfits, dancing and vocal performances during the gathering.
Historical Context
In the past, the festival was functioned as a platform for political demonstrations - the Oromo community have historically expressed concerns about political and economic marginalisation.
However, the recent event unfolded peacefully, with an focus on joy, solidarity and cultural pride.
