🔗 Share this article Snapshots along with Melodies as People of Ethiopia Celebrate Annual Thanksgiving Tens of thousands of brightly clothed participants assembled in the heart of Addis Ababa for the yearly gratitude celebration during recent days. The festival is celebrated by the Oromo community, the predominant population group, and takes place at the conclusion of the nation's major rainy season. Each year, participants come together around revered natural water sources to show appreciation to their divine beings for the fertile landscape that the rainy season have delivered. "I've attended Irreecha for the past nine years," commented 25-year-old a participant. "For me, this event represents my cultural background, it reflects the pride and importance of my community." Males, women, the elderly and the young all take part, decorated in striking clothes and jewellery. They sing, move rhythmically, share stories and deposit freshly cut grass and blossoms in water - representing life, rebirth and aspiration. Global Presence The celebration brings in individuals from across Ethiopia, guests travel from globally. "I came the previous year - it was wonderful, so beautiful, I invited my children with me currently," expressed Claire, originating from Belfast in Northern Ireland. "It is amazing. Everyone greets you, all attendees offers affection and expresses hospitality." Celebration Timeline The initial day of the celebration occurred on the weekend in the main city. On the next day, participants made their way to a nearby town, a small town close to the capital. Although the festival has its foundations in traditional beliefs, it is now observed by the majority of the community, without consideration for their belief system. Modern Trends In the recent years, the figure of people attending the celebration has grown significantly. This is in part thanks to the growth of online networks, where many youth document their attire, dancing and singing during the gathering. Past Context In the previous years, the festival was used as a platform for anti-government protests - the Oromo community have long complained about political and economic marginalisation. However, this year's celebration took place calmly, with an emphasis on celebration, togetherness and ethnic identity.