Irreecha 2026 falls on 3 October at Hora Finfinne in Addis Ababa and 4 October at Hora Arsadi in Bishoftu. What it means, how to attend respectfully, and how to reach it.
Irreecha 2026: Ethiopia’s Oromo Thanksgiving at the Sacred Lakes
Ethiopia’s festival calendar: Timket, Meskel, Enkutatash, Irreecha and the dates they fall on each year.
Irreecha 2026 falls on 3 October at Hora Finfinne in Addis Ababa and 4 October at Hora Arsadi in Bishoftu. What it means, how to attend respectfully, and how to reach it.
Meskel falls on Sunday 27 September 2026, with the Demera bonfire lit on the eve, Saturday the 26th. What the festival commemorates, where to watch it, and how to plan around it.
Enkutatash — Ethiopian New Year — falls on 11 September 2026, opening year 2019. What the Adey Abeba means, how Ethiopia celebrates, and what follows in September.
Discover Ethiopia’s most vibrant festivals, from Timket (Epiphany), a grand religious celebration with colorful processions and water blessings, to Meskel (Finding of the True Cross), where massive bonfires light up the night. Experience Ethiopia’s deep-rooted traditions, spiritual ceremonies, and cultural heritage through these must-see events. Whether you’re a traveler seeking authentic cultural experiences or a history enthusiast eager to witness ancient Ethiopian celebrations, this guide explores the country’s most spectacular festivals and the best ways to experience them.