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A multitude of colorfully attired attendees gathered in central Ethiopia's capital for the annual thanksgiving festival this weekend.

The festival is celebrated by the Oromo community, Ethiopia's largest ethnic group, and is held at the completion of the nation's primary wet season.

Each year, celebrants assemble around holy water bodies to give thanks to their higher powers for the greenery that the rains have provided.

"I've attended Irreecha for the previous nine years," stated 25-year-old one attendee.

"To me, this event represents my heritage, it reflects the honor and importance of my community."

Men, females, the elderly and the younger generation all participate, ornamented in attention-grabbing attire and accessories.

They sing, move rhythmically, share stories and deposit recently harvested grass and flowers in the water - denoting life, renewal and aspiration.

Worldwide Participation

This festival not only draws participants from across Ethiopia, guests fly in from internationally.

"I attended last year - it was so good, so magnificent, I brought along my children with me currently," expressed Claire, from abroad.

"It is amazing. Everyone wants to say hello, everyone shows warmth and offers greetings."

Celebration Program

The opening day of the festival was held on Saturday in the capital. On Sunday, festival-goers travelled to Bishoftu, a settlement near the main city.

Although Irreecha has its foundations in traditional beliefs, it is now observed by the bulk of the Oromo people, without consideration for their religion.

Recent Changes

In the last ten years, the quantity of individuals participating in the festival has increased dramatically. This is in part thanks to the growth of online networks, where various young people record their clothing, dancing and musical expressions during the festival.

Previous Significance

In the earlier times, this event was functioned as a stage for political demonstrations - the Oromo people have historically expressed concerns about systemic disadvantages.

Nevertheless, the recent event unfolded peacefully, with an focus on joy, togetherness and cultural pride.