Celebrates the baptism of Christ with holy water rituals, colorful parades, and priestly processions carrying the Tabot.
Orthodox Christians celebrate with church services, family feasts, and traditional games in rural communities.
After long fasting, Easter night is filled with prayer, followed by joyful meals featuring lamb, doro wat, and injera.
Ethiopia’s New Year celebration marking the start of the spring season. Includes singing, flower gifts, and family gatherings.
Massive bonfires are lit nationwide to commemorate the discovery of the cross on which Jesus was crucified.
A cultural thanksgiving held near lakes and rivers in Bishoftu and Oromia, expressing gratitude to Waaqa (God).
A girls' festival in Tigray and Amhara. Young women dress beautifully, sing, and dance in celebration of womanhood and faith.
Thousands of pilgrims gather in Axum at the Church of Saint Mary of Zion to honor the Virgin Mary, believed to protect the Ark of the Covenant.
The Sidama New Year. Celebrated with traditional Sidama music, food, and dancing in Hawassa and surrounding areas.
A holy day for Ethiopian Muslims, especially in Harar. Marked by fasting, mourning, and reflections on sacrifice.
A major pilgrimage for Ethiopian Muslims in Bale Zone, honoring Sheikh Hussein, a revered 13th-century saint. Pilgrims walk barefoot, carrying sticks, to his tomb in acts of devotion and spiritual cleansing.
No Ethiopian journey is complete without indulging in its world-famous cuisine. Here are some essentials:
Injera: Fermented sour flatbread made from teff flour. It’s the base for nearly every meal.
Doro Wat: A spicy chicken stew with boiled eggs, rich in berbere spice and often served during holidays.
Tibs: Grilled meat (beef or lamb) served sizzling with onions, garlic, and chili.
Kitfo: Raw or lightly cooked minced beef seasoned with spiced butter and mitmita (chili powder).
Shiro Wat: A smooth, spicy stew made from ground chickpeas or lentils. A popular vegan/fasting meal.
Traditional Coffee Ceremony: A three-round ritual of roasting, brewing, and serving coffee. It’s a sacred and social experience that you must not miss.
