Selfies and Singing Highlight Ethiopia's Oromo Irreecha Thanksgiving Festival
Photos capture the joy and unity at this year’s Irreecha festival celebrated by Ethiopia’s Oromo community.
Tens of thousands of Ethiopians in vibrant attire gathered in Addis Ababa for Irreecha, the Oromo thanksgiving festival marking the end of the rainy season.
Organized by Ethiopia’s largest ethnic group, Irreecha honors the greenery brought by seasonal rains.
“Irreecha represents my identity and the pride of my people,” said 25-year-old Moata Abdulmajid, who has celebrated it annually for nine years.
Festival-goers of all ages wear striking clothes and jewellery, singing, dancing and offering fresh grass and flowers into water as symbols of renewal and hope.
The celebration draws not only Ethiopians but also visitors from around the world. “Last year was amazing, so I brought my children,” said Claire from Belfast. “Everyone greets you with a warm welcome.”
The festivities began on Saturday in Addis Ababa and continued Sunday in Bishoftu, a town outside the capital. Although rooted in indigenous faith, Irreecha is widely observed by Oromos of all religions.
Attendance has surged in the past decade, fueled by social media where young people share their outfits, dances and songs.
While Irreecha has previously been a stage for political protest over Oromo marginalization, this year’s event was marked by unity, joy and cultural pride.
Irreecha has transformed from a traditional thanksgiving ritual into a vibrant, unifying celebration that highlights Oromo cultural pride and global community engagement.
This topic was reported by BBC.
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