Tens of thousands of vibrantly dressed Ethiopians gathered in Addis Ababa for the annual Irreecha festival, a joyous thanksgiving celebration marking the end of the rainy season. The Oromo people, Ethiopia’s largest ethnic group, observe Irreecha near rivers and lakes, expressing gratitude for the rains and the greenery they bring.
Festival-goers adorned in colorful attire and jewelry participate in singing, dancing, and storytelling. A central ritual involves placing freshly cut grass and flowers into water, symbolizing life, hope, and renewal.
Moata Abdulmajid, a 25-year-old attendee, shared his connection to the festival: “To me, Irreecha represents my identity, it reflects the pride and greatness of my people.”
The festival attracts participants not only from across Ethiopia but also from around the world. Claire from Belfast, attending for the second time, described the experience as “amazing,” highlighting the warm welcome and camaraderie.
While Irreecha has roots in indigenous faiths, it is now widely celebrated by Oromos of all religious backgrounds. The festival has seen a surge in popularity over the last decade, partly fueled by social media, where young people often share their festive outfits, dances, and songs.
This year’s celebration was peaceful, emphasizing joy, unity, and cultural pride, a departure from past instances where the festival was used as a platform for political expression.
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