Ethiopian new year

Ethiopian New Year, also known as Enkutatesh or Enkutatesh Meriakal, is a significant holiday in Ethiopia and Eritrea. It is celebrated on September 11th or 12th of every year, depending on the Ethiopian calendar.

In the Ethiopian calendar, the year is 12 months long, with 12 months of 30 days each, and a 13th month called Pagumain which has 5 or 6 days, depending on whether it is a leap year or not. This means that the Ethiopian New Year falls on a different date each year on the Gregorian calendar.

Ethiopian New Year is a time for family gatherings, feasting, and celebration. It is a public holiday in Ethiopia and Eritrea, and many people take time off work to celebrate with their loved ones.

Here are some traditional practices and customs associated with Ethiopian New Year:

  1. Cleaning the house: Before the New Year, Ethiopians clean their homes thoroughly to symbolize a fresh start.
  2. Wearing new clothes: People wear new clothes on the day of the New Year to symbolize renewal and a fresh start.
  3. Feasting: Traditional Ethiopian dishes such as injera (flatbread), wats (stews), and tibs (stir-fried meat) are prepared for the occasion.
  4. Visiting family and friends: Ethiopian New Year is a time for socializing and visiting with family and friends.
  5. Giving gifts: It is customary to give gifts, such as money or small tokens, to children and loved ones on the day of the New Year.
  6. Singing and dancing: Traditional Ethiopian music and dance are an integral part of the celebrations.
  7. Fireworks: Fireworks are often set off to mark the occasion and add to the festive atmosphere.

In Ethiopia, the New Year is also a time for reflection and prayer. Many people attend church services and pray for a prosperous and peaceful year ahead.

In Eritrea, the New Year is also celebrated with great enthusiasm. The capital city, Asmara, is decorated with colorful lights and decorations, and traditional music and dance performances are held in public spaces.

Overall, Ethiopian New Year is a joyous and festive occasion that is deeply rooted in Ethiopian culture and tradition.