Selfies and Singing as People of Ethiopia Observe Gratitude Festival
Tens of thousands of colorfully attired attendees gathered in the heart of Ethiopia's capital for the traditional gratitude celebration this weekend.
This thanksgiving celebration is honored by the Oromo community, the predominant community, and occurs at the conclusion of the country's primary wet season.
Every year, celebrants gather around revered rivers and lakes to give thanks to their creators for the fertile landscape that the rains have delivered.
"I've attended the festival for the last nine years," commented 25-year-old a participant.
"For me, this event embodies my heritage, it demonstrates the dignity and significance of my ethnic group."
Men, ladies, the elderly and the younger generation all join in, decorated in striking garments and jewellery.
They sing, perform traditional dances, tell tales and place newly gathered green plants and flowers in water - denoting life, rebirth and aspiration.
Global Presence
The celebration brings in individuals from across Ethiopia, attendees travel from around the world.
"I visited the previous year - it was so good, so magnificent, I brought my kids with me this year," said an international guest, from Northern Ireland.
"It is amazing. All people welcomes you, all attendees offers affection and expresses hospitality."
Celebration Timeline
The opening day of the festival occurred on recently in the main city. On the next day, celebrants made their way to a nearby town, a settlement close to the urban center.
Even though the festival has its foundations in traditional beliefs, it is now practiced by the larger part of the community, without consideration for their faith.
Modern Trends
In the recent years, the quantity of people participating in the festival has grown significantly. This is partly due to the growth of social media, where many younger generation capture their clothing, traditional dances and singing during the celebration.
Past Context
In the previous years, the festival was served as a platform for political demonstrations - the ethnic group have consistently raised issues about systemic disadvantages.
Nevertheless, this year's celebration took place calmly, with an emphasis on celebration, togetherness and ethnic identity.
