Selfies along with Chanting as Ethiopian Citizens Observe Gratitude Festival
Tens of thousands of colorfully attired participants gathered in central the city center for the yearly gratitude celebration this weekend.
This thanksgiving celebration is celebrated by the Oromo people, the biggest ethnic group, and takes place at the completion of the land's main monsoon period.
Each year, festival-goers gather around holy rivers and lakes to show appreciation to their higher powers for the lush vegetation that the rainy season have brought.
"I have participated in this celebration for the previous nine years," mentioned 25-year-old one attendee.
"To me, the celebration represents my identity, it demonstrates the dignity and greatness of my people."
Men, women, the senior citizens and the youth all take part, ornamented in eye-catching clothes and accessories.
They vocalize, dance, exchange narratives and arrange newly gathered grass and floral arrangements in the water - representing vitality, renewal and hope.
Global Attendance
The celebration not only draws participants from across Ethiopia, visitors fly in from internationally.
"I came a year ago - it was wonderful, so magnificent, I brought along my children with me now," said an international guest, from Northern Ireland.
"It's incredible. All people greets you, each person offers affection and expresses hospitality."
Festival Schedule
The initial day of the celebration occurred on Saturday in the capital. On Sunday, celebrants journeyed to Bishoftu, a settlement near the capital.
Although the festival has its foundations in indigenous faith systems, it is now celebrated by the bulk of Oromos, without consideration for their religion.
Modern Developments
In the recent years, the number of people attending the celebration has increased dramatically. This is partially because of the expansion of social media, where numerous younger generation capture their attire, traditional dances and vocal performances during the celebration.
Previous Significance
In the previous years, this event was served as a platform for political demonstrations - the ethnic group have historically expressed concerns about political and economic marginalisation.
However, the recent event unfolded peacefully, with an focus on celebration, solidarity and heritage appreciation.
