Selfies as well as Chanting as Ethiopian Citizens Mark Thanksgiving
A multitude of brightly clothed participants converged in the heart of the city center for the traditional thanksgiving festival this weekend.
The festival is observed by the Oromo people, Ethiopia's largest ethnic group, and takes place at the conclusion of the country's primary wet season.
Every year, celebrants gather around holy natural water sources to give thanks to their creators for the fertile landscape that the rainy season have delivered.
"I've attended this celebration for the past nine years," commented 25-year-old one attendee.
"For me, Irreecha symbolizes my heritage, it reflects the dignity and greatness of my ethnic group."
Men, females, the senior citizens and the young all participate, decorated in eye-catching attire and ornaments.
They sing, dance, share stories and deposit recently harvested grass and flowers in water - symbolizing life, regeneration and hope.
Global Attendance
This festival not only draws participants from throughout the country, attendees fly in from around the world.
"I came last year - the experience was amazing, so magnificent, I invited my offspring with me this year," said Claire, hailing from Belfast in Northern Ireland.
"It is amazing. All people welcomes you, all attendees wants to give you a kiss and offers greetings."
Festival Program
The initial day of the event was held on recently in Addis Ababa. On the following day, festival-goers journeyed to a nearby town, a community near the urban center.
Even though Irreecha has its origins in traditional beliefs, it is now practiced by the majority of the Oromo people, without consideration for their faith.
Modern Trends
In the recent years, the figure of participants attending the celebration has grown significantly. This is partially because of the rise of social media, where numerous young people capture their clothing, dance moves and musical expressions during the festival.
Previous Context
In the previous years, Irreecha was functioned as a stage for public dissent - the Oromo people have historically expressed concerns about social exclusion.
However, the recent event proceeded harmoniously, with an emphasis on celebration, unity and heritage appreciation.
