Ethiopia is celebrating the start of its new year - 2018. The country has its own unique calendar, meaning it is seven years behind the Western calendar. These yellow 'adey ababa' blooms are associated with the celebration and are seen being sold in bustling markets. The seven-year gap in the calendar arises from the Ethiopian Orthodox Church's different calculation of Jesus Christ's birth year.
While the celebrations, known as Enkutatash, are intertwined with cultural traditions, they are not strictly religious. People gather to buy flowers and long grass, essential for traditional coffee ceremonies, and enjoy their festive meals, which often include chicken and mutton dishes. Amidst preparations, young girls sing traditional New Year's songs, and the atmosphere is filled with joy and anticipation.
This year, the festivities take on a greater sense of pride with the recent formal launch of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, symbolizing hope and unity for the country. The celebration is not only a marker of time but also an opportunity for family gatherings and community connection.
While the celebrations, known as Enkutatash, are intertwined with cultural traditions, they are not strictly religious. People gather to buy flowers and long grass, essential for traditional coffee ceremonies, and enjoy their festive meals, which often include chicken and mutton dishes. Amidst preparations, young girls sing traditional New Year's songs, and the atmosphere is filled with joy and anticipation.
This year, the festivities take on a greater sense of pride with the recent formal launch of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, symbolizing hope and unity for the country. The celebration is not only a marker of time but also an opportunity for family gatherings and community connection.
