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A multitude of vibrantly dressed participants converged in the heart of Ethiopia's capital for the annual thanksgiving festival over the past days.

Irreecha is celebrated by the Oromo, the predominant population group, and takes place at the conclusion of the land's major rainy season.

Annually, participants gather around revered water bodies to show appreciation to their creators for the fertile landscape that the rainy season have delivered.

"I've been celebrating Irreecha for the previous nine years," commented twenty-five-year-old Moata Abdulmajid.

"In my view, this event embodies my identity, it reflects the honor and greatness of my community."

Men, ladies, the older generation and the young all take part, ornamented in attention-grabbing clothes and ornaments.

They vocalize, dance, tell tales and deposit newly gathered green plants and blossoms in liquid - denoting existence, renewal and hope.

Worldwide Attendance

This festival does not only attract individuals from all regions of Ethiopia, attendees come from globally.

"I attended the previous year - the experience was amazing, so beautiful, I brought along my children with me now," expressed one visitor, originating from Northern Ireland.

"It's wonderful. All people welcomes you, all attendees shows warmth and expresses hospitality."

Event Schedule

The opening day of the celebration occurred on recently in the main city. On Sunday, festival-goers made their way to Bishoftu, a settlement close to the urban center.

Even though this celebration has its roots in traditional beliefs, it is now practiced by the majority of the Oromo people, without consideration for their faith.

Contemporary Trends

In the recent years, the quantity of participants participating in the event has expanded substantially. This is partly due to the expansion of digital platforms, where many youth document their outfits, dancing and musical expressions during the festival.

Previous Context

In the past, Irreecha was served as a platform for anti-government protests - the Oromo community have long complained about political and economic marginalisation.

However, the latest gathering proceeded harmoniously, with an emphasis on happiness, solidarity and cultural pride.