In brief
The Irreecha festival was celebrated in Addis Ababa, bringing together thousands of Ethiopians who expressed gratitude for the blessings of nature at the end of the rainy season. The festival promotes a strong sense of cultural identity and unity among participants, with lively music, dance, and traditional attire on display.
Tens of thousands of vibrantly dressed Ethiopians descended on downtown Addis Ababa for an annual thanksgiving festival this weekend.
Irreecha is celebrated by the Oromo, Ethiopia's largest ethnic group, and takes place at the end of the country's main rainy season.
Each year, festival-goers gather around sacred rivers and lakes to thank their creators for the greenery that the rains have brought. 25-year-old Moata Abdulmajid, a local participant, stated, Irreecha represents my identity, it reflects the pride and greatness of my people.
The celebration saw people of all ages dressing in eye-catching traditional clothing, participating in singing, dancing, and sharing stories. They placed freshly cut grass and flowers in water, symbolizing life and renewal.
Irreecha not only attracts Ethiopians from across the country but also attendees from around the world. Claire, a visitor from Belfast, shared her experience: It is amazing. Everybody wants to say hello, everyone wants to give you a kiss and say welcome.
This year, the festival unfolded peacefully, focusing on joy and cultural pride.
