🔗 Share this article Snapshots and Melodies as People of Ethiopia Mark Gratitude Festival Countless individuals of colorfully attired participants gathered in central Addis Ababa for the traditional Irreecha event over the past days. The festival is observed by the Oromo community, Ethiopia's largest population group, and is held at the completion of the nation's primary wet season. Annually, festival-goers assemble around sacred water bodies to express gratitude to their divine beings for the lush vegetation that the rainy season have brought. "I've been celebrating the festival for the previous nine years," mentioned twenty-five-year-old Moata Abdulmajid. "In my view, the celebration represents my identity, it reflects the honor and importance of my ethnic group." Gentlemen, females, the senior citizens and the younger generation all take part, ornamented in striking clothes and ornaments. They sing, dance, share stories and arrange freshly cut grass and blossoms in water - denoting existence, renewal and hope. Worldwide Attendance The celebration brings in participants from all regions of Ethiopia, attendees travel from around the world. "I visited last year - it was wonderful, so magnificent, I brought my kids with me now," said one visitor, originating from Northern Ireland. "It is amazing. All people welcomes you, all attendees wants to give you a kiss and offers greetings." Event Schedule The initial day of the event took place on Saturday in the capital. On the following day, participants journeyed to Bishoftu, a small town just outside the main city. Although the festival has its origins in indigenous faith systems, it is now practiced by the majority of the community, without consideration for their belief system. Contemporary Trends In the recent years, the number of people participating in the celebration has increased dramatically. This is in part thanks to the expansion of digital platforms, where many young people document their outfits, dancing and singing during the gathering. Previous Context In the previous years, Irreecha was served as a venue for public dissent - the Oromo community have consistently raised issues about social exclusion. However, the latest gathering proceeded harmoniously, with an emphasis on joy, togetherness and cultural pride.