Tens of thousands of Ethiopians gathered recently in downtown Addis Ababa for the annual Irreecha festival, which is celebrated by the Oromo community, the country’s largest ethnic group. This important event marks the end of the main rainy season and is characterized by vibrant clothing, music, and dance.
Festival participants typically surround sacred rivers and lakes to express gratitude for the greenery fostered by the rains. Attendees range from young children to the elderly, all wearing traditional attire and jewelry, engaging in singing, dancing, and placing fresh flowers in the water—a ritual signifying life and renewal.
The festival, which not only attracts locals but also international visitors, has seen a significant rise in attendance over the past decade. Many young people share their experiences on social media, showcasing their outfits and performances during the event. Some attendees, like Claire from Belfast, expressed how welcoming the atmosphere is, citing their awe at the festival’s beauty.
The 2022 celebration took place over two days, with activities in Addis Ababa followed by a pilgrimage to Bishoftu, a small town nearby. While Irreecha has historical ties to indigenous faith systems, it is now embraced by most Oromos, regardless of their religious beliefs.
Although past festivities have been used as platforms for political protest due to historical marginalization, this year’s event reportedly unfolded peacefully, emphasizing joy and cultural unity. The contrast between previous tensions and this year’s celebration prompts questions about the evolving nature of cultural expressions in Ethiopia.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cd6399enj39o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss