🔗 Share this article Photos and Chanting as Ethiopians Mark Annual Thanksgiving Countless individuals of vibrantly dressed attendees gathered in downtown the city center for the yearly gratitude celebration over the past days. This thanksgiving celebration is honored by the Oromo community, Ethiopia's largest population group, and takes place at the end of the land's major rainy season. Each year, celebrants come together around holy natural water sources to give thanks to their creators for the fertile landscape that the rains have delivered. "I have participated in the festival for the previous nine years," stated young adult one attendee. "To me, Irreecha embodies my heritage, it reflects the honor and importance of my people." Males, women, the older generation and the youth all join in, decorated in striking garments and ornaments. They sing, dance, share stories and place freshly cut green plants and floral arrangements in water - representing vitality, regeneration and optimism. Global Attendance The celebration brings in individuals from all regions of Ethiopia, attendees fly in from around the world. "I attended the previous year - the experience was amazing, so spectacular, I brought along my children with me currently," mentioned one visitor, originating from Belfast in Northern Ireland. "It is amazing. Everyone greets you, everyone wants to give you a kiss and says welcome." Event Timeline The initial day of the festival took place on the weekend in the main city. On Sunday, participants travelled to Bishoftu, a community near the main city. Even though Irreecha has its origins in native spiritual practices, it is now celebrated by the bulk of the community, without consideration for their belief system. Recent Trends In the recent years, the figure of individuals joining the event has expanded substantially. This is partially because of the rise of digital platforms, where numerous young people document their outfits, dancing and musical expressions during the gathering. Past Significance In the previous years, this event was used as a platform for public dissent - the ethnic group have consistently raised issues about political and economic marginalisation. Nonetheless, the recent event took place calmly, with an emphasis on joy, togetherness and heritage appreciation.