1. Meskel: The Finding of the True Cross

Meskel, celebrated annually on September 27 (or 28 in a leap year), is one of Ethiopia’s most important religious holidays. This Christian festival commemorates the discovery of the True Cross, the cross on which Jesus was crucified, by St. Helena in the 4th century.
The celebration starts with the building of a large bonfire called “demera”, which is lit in town squares and churchyards. People gather in traditional dress, singing hymns, chanting, and dancing around the fire, symbolizing St. Helena’s vision. Meskel is also a time for families to gather, enjoy traditional Ethiopian food, and celebrate with loved ones.

2. Timkat: The Epiphany Festival

Timkat (Epiphany) is a vibrant celebration of the baptism of Jesus in the Jordan River and is observed on January 19. The festival is marked by colorful processions, where replicas of the Tabot (the Ark of the Covenant) are carried by priests from churches to nearby water bodies.
Timkat is a deeply spiritual event, and the people, dressed in white traditional clothing, gather to renew their faith by sprinkling holy water on themselves. The celebration also includes joyful singing, dancing, and sharing meals, making it a true reflection of Ethiopia’s communal spirit.

3. Gena: Ethiopian Christmas

Gena, celebrated on January 7, is the Ethiopian Orthodox Church’s Christmas. While it may not involve the commercial elements often seen in other parts of the world, it is a time for family, faith, and festivity. The night before Gena, people gather in churches to attend a special mass.
After the religious ceremony, people enjoy traditional foods like doro wat (chicken stew) and injera, while children play a game called Gena (similar to hockey), believed to be played by the shepherds when they heard about the birth of Christ.

Conclusion: Ethiopian festivals are a beautiful blend of faith, tradition, and cultural pride. From the flames of Meskel to the water blessings of Timkat, these celebrations offer a deep insight into the Ethiopian way of life, where history, religion, and community remain intertwined.