đŸ”— Share this article Snapshots and Singing as People of Ethiopia Mark Annual Thanksgiving Tens of thousands of vibrantly dressed attendees converged in downtown Ethiopia's capital for the traditional gratitude celebration during recent days. The festival is celebrated by the Oromo, the predominant ethnic group, and occurs at the completion of the nation's major rainy season. Annually, participants gather around sacred natural water sources to give thanks to their creators for the fertile landscape that the precipitation have delivered. "I have participated in this celebration for the past nine years," mentioned twenty-five-year-old a participant. "For me, the celebration embodies my identity, it showcases the dignity and significance of my community." Men, ladies, the elderly and the young all participate, ornamented in attention-grabbing attire and ornaments. They vocalize, move rhythmically, share stories and place recently harvested grass and floral arrangements in the water - symbolizing vitality, regeneration and aspiration. Global Presence This festival not only draws people from across Ethiopia, visitors fly in from globally. "I attended last year - the experience was amazing, so spectacular, I brought along my offspring with me now," mentioned Claire, originating from abroad. "It's wonderful. Everybody welcomes you, all attendees offers affection and offers greetings." Event Program The initial day of the festival took place on Saturday in Addis Ababa. On the next day, festival-goers travelled to a provincial location, a small town near the urban center. Even though the festival has its roots in traditional beliefs, it is now practiced by the bulk of Oromos, regardless of their faith. Modern Changes In the past decade, the number of individuals participating in the celebration has grown significantly. This is partially because of the expansion of digital platforms, where various young people record their outfits, dance moves and singing during the gathering. Past Context In the past, Irreecha was functioned as a venue for political demonstrations - the ethnic group have historically expressed concerns about political and economic marginalisation. Nonetheless, the latest gathering took place calmly, with an focus on celebration, togetherness and heritage appreciation.