Snapshots along with Singing as People of Ethiopia Observe Thanksgiving
Tens of thousands of colorfully attired participants gathered in downtown Addis Ababa for the traditional Irreecha event during recent days.
The festival is celebrated by the Oromo people, Ethiopia's largest population group, and takes place at the conclusion of the country's primary wet season.
Every year, participants gather around holy natural water sources to give thanks to their creators for the lush vegetation that the rainy season have brought.
"I've attended the festival for the last nine years," mentioned 25-year-old one attendee.
"To me, this event embodies my heritage, it reflects the honor and significance of my people."
Men, women, the senior citizens and the youth all take part, decorated in eye-catching garments and ornaments.
They chant, dance, share stories and deposit recently harvested green plants and floral arrangements in the water - representing existence, renewal and hope.
Global Attendance
This festival brings in participants from across Ethiopia, attendees come from globally.
"I attended last year - it was so good, so beautiful, I brought my kids with me this year," mentioned Claire, hailing from abroad.
"It's incredible. Everyone welcomes you, all attendees shows warmth and says welcome."
Celebration Program
The opening day of the celebration took place on recently in the main city. On the next day, participants travelled to a nearby town, a community just outside the urban center.
Even though the festival has its foundations in native spiritual practices, it is now celebrated by the bulk of the Oromo people, regardless of their belief system.
Contemporary Trends
In the past decade, the number of participants participating in the event has grown significantly. This is partly due to the expansion of online networks, where numerous younger generation capture their attire, traditional dances and vocal performances during the gathering.
Past Context
In the previous years, Irreecha was functioned as a platform for political demonstrations - the Oromo people have historically expressed concerns about social exclusion.
Nonetheless, the latest gathering proceeded harmoniously, with an emphasis on happiness, unity and ethnic identity.
