Snapshots along with Melodies as Ethiopian Citizens Celebrate Thanksgiving

A multitude of brightly clothed attendees gathered in the heart of Ethiopia's capital for the traditional thanksgiving festival during recent days.

The festival is observed by the Oromo people, the biggest ethnic group, and takes place at the completion of the land's major rainy season.

Annually, participants gather around sacred natural water sources to express gratitude to their higher powers for the greenery that the precipitation have delivered.

"I've been celebrating the festival for the previous nine years," mentioned twenty-five-year-old a participant.

"To me, the celebration represents my heritage, it reflects the honor and importance of my people."

Men, ladies, the elderly and the young all take part, ornamented in eye-catching garments and accessories.

They vocalize, perform traditional dances, tell tales and arrange recently harvested green plants and flowers in the water - denoting life, regeneration and optimism.

Global Attendance

The celebration does not only attract participants from all regions of Ethiopia, guests come from globally.

"I attended the previous year - it was wonderful, so magnificent, I brought along my kids with me currently," said an international guest, originating from abroad.

"It's incredible. Everyone welcomes you, everyone offers affection and says welcome."

Festival Schedule

The initial day of the festival occurred on recently in Addis Ababa. On the next day, festival-goers travelled to Bishoftu, a small town just outside the urban center.

Although the festival has its foundations in native spiritual practices, it is now celebrated by the larger part of the community, irrespective of their faith.

Contemporary Developments

In the recent years, the quantity of people participating in the celebration has grown significantly. This is partly due to the expansion of online networks, where various young people capture their attire, dance moves and singing during the celebration.

Historical Background

In the past, this event was served as a venue for public dissent - the ethnic group have long complained about political and economic marginalisation.

Nonetheless, this year's celebration unfolded peacefully, with an priority on happiness, togetherness and ethnic identity.