Africsan new year party

African New Year Party! Here's a guide to help you plan a fantastic celebration:

What is African New Year? African New Year, also known as Enkutatesh in Ethiopia, is a significant cultural event celebrated on September 11th or 12th every year. It marks the beginning of the Ethiopian New Year, which is based on the ancient Coptic calendar.

Traditional Celebrations In Ethiopia, the New Year is a time for family gatherings, feasting, and merriment. Here are some traditional activities you can incorporate into your party:

  1. Wearing new clothes: It's customary to wear new clothes on Enkutatesh to symbolize renewal and new beginnings.
  2. Traditional foods: Serve traditional Ethiopian dishes like injera (flatbread), wats (stews), and tibs (stir-fried meat).
  3. Music and dance: Play traditional Ethiopian music and encourage guests to dance the traditional Ethiopian dance, Azmari.
  4. Gift-giving: Exchange gifts, especially new clothes, as a symbol of good luck and prosperity.

Party Ideas

  1. Decorations: Use vibrant colors like red, gold, and green to create a festive atmosphere. Hang traditional Ethiopian textiles, such as kente cloth, and add some African-inspired decorations.
  2. Music: Play a mix of traditional Ethiopian music and modern African beats to keep the party lively.
  3. Food and drinks: Serve a variety of traditional Ethiopian dishes, including vegetarian and vegan options. Offer traditional Ethiopian drinks like tej (honey wine) and awaze (spicy sauce).
  4. Games and activities: Organize traditional Ethiopian games like Gena (a board game) and Azmari (a dance competition). You can also have a photo booth with African-inspired props.
  5. Attire: Encourage guests to wear traditional African clothing or dress in vibrant colors to match the festive atmosphere.

Party Favors Consider giving your guests a small token of appreciation, such as:

  1. Traditional Ethiopian spices: Offer a packet of traditional Ethiopian spices, like berbere or mitmita, as a party favor.
  2. African-inspired candies: Give out African-inspired candies, like ginger or sesame seeds, as a sweet treat.
  3. Handmade crafts: Offer handmade crafts, like traditional Ethiopian jewelry or textiles, as a unique party favor.

Tips and Variations

  1. Invitations: Design your invitations to resemble traditional Ethiopian scrolls or use African-inspired graphics.
  2. Dress code: Encourage guests to dress in traditional African attire or wear vibrant colors to match the festive atmosphere.
  3. Variety of activities: Offer a range of activities, including traditional Ethiopian games, music, and dance, to cater to different interests and ages.
  4. Food and drink options: Provide a variety of food and drink options, including vegetarian and vegan choices, to accommodate different dietary needs.

By incorporating these ideas into your African New Year party, you'll create a unique and memorable celebration that your guests will cherish.