Selfies along with Chanting as Ethiopian Citizens Mark Gratitude Festival
Tens of thousands of brightly clothed Ethiopians converged in central Ethiopia's capital for the annual Irreecha event during recent days.
This thanksgiving celebration is honored by the Oromo people, the biggest population group, and takes place at the completion of the nation's major monsoon period.
Annually, celebrants come together around holy rivers and lakes to give thanks to their creators for the fertile landscape that the rainy season have brought.
"I've attended Irreecha for the last nine years," commented young adult a participant.
"In my view, the celebration symbolizes my identity, it reflects the dignity and importance of my people."
Gentlemen, ladies, the senior citizens and the younger generation all take part, ornamented in striking attire and accessories.
They sing, move rhythmically, tell tales and arrange recently harvested foliage and floral arrangements in the water - denoting life, renewal and hope.
Worldwide Presence
The celebration not only draws participants from across Ethiopia, guests fly in from globally.
"I visited a year ago - the experience was amazing, so beautiful, I invited my children with me currently," said one visitor, hailing from Belfast in Northern Ireland.
"It's wonderful. Everyone wants to say hello, everyone offers affection and offers greetings."
Celebration Schedule
The first day of the event was held on the weekend in Addis Ababa. On Sunday, participants travelled to Bishoftu, a community close to the urban center.
Even though this celebration has its roots in traditional beliefs, it is now celebrated by the majority of the Oromo people, without consideration for their belief system.
Contemporary Changes
In the past decade, the figure of participants participating in the celebration has expanded substantially. This is partially because of the growth of online networks, where many young people document their attire, dance moves and vocal performances during the gathering.
Previous Context
In the earlier times, this event was used as a venue for anti-government protests - the Oromo community have consistently raised issues about systemic disadvantages.
Nevertheless, the latest gathering took place calmly, with an focus on joy, unity and cultural pride.
