If you want to see Addis Ababa at its most vibrant, plan your visit around its festivals. In Ethiopia, celebrations are a spiritual and communal masterpiece, often involving thousands of people dressed in traditional white robes, rhythmic chanting, and ancient rituals that haven’t changed in centuries.
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Because Ethiopia follows the Julian Calendar, its holidays fall on different dates than in the West. Here are the most spectacular cultural events in Addis Ababa to add to your 2025–2026 travel bucket list.
1. Meskel: The Festival of the True Cross
When: September 27 (September 28 in leap years) Where: Meskel Square, City Center
Meskel is arguably the most famous festival in Addis Ababa. It commemorates the 4th-century discovery of the True Cross by Queen Helena.
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The Demera: On the eve of Meskel, a massive conical bonfire (the Demera) is built in Meskel Square. Thousands gather as priests in colorful robes lead a procession of chanting and dancing around the fire.
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The Sight: Watching the bonfire light up the night sky in the heart of the city is an unforgettable experience. The direction in which the central pole falls is said to predict the fortune of the coming year.
2. Timkat: The Ethiopian Epiphany
When: January 19 (January 20 in leap years) Where: Jan Medha Field
Timkat is the most colorful and important religious festival for Orthodox Christians in Ethiopia, celebrating the baptism of Jesus in the Jordan River.
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The Procession: On the eve of Timkat, replicas of the Ark of the Covenant (called Tabots) are carried out of every church in the city, wrapped in rich silks and carried on the heads of priests.
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The Celebration: Crowds follow the Tabots with music, drumming, and the traditional “Eskesta” dance. On the main day, crowds gather at Jan Medha to be sprinkled with holy water in a joyful renewal of their baptismal vows.
3. Enkutatash: The Ethiopian New Year
When: September 11 (September 12 in leap years) Where: City-wide (Friendship Park and local neighborhoods)
Enkutatash translates to “Gift of Jewels.” It marks the end of the rainy season and the return of the Queen of Sheba from her visit to King Solomon.
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The Flowers: This is the season when the highlands are covered in bright yellow Adey Ababa daisies.
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The Tradition: Children go door-to-door in traditional white outfits, handing out hand-painted pictures of flowers and singing for small gifts. It is a day of family feasts, featuring Doro Wat (spicy chicken stew) and elaborate coffee ceremonies.
4. Genna: Ethiopian Christmas
When: January 7, Where: Holy Trinity Cathedral and local churches
While Lalibela is famous for Genna, Addis Ababa celebrates with equal devotion.
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The Vigil: Many locals spend the entire night in church for a candlelight vigil that lasts until dawn.
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The Game: Traditionally, men and boys play a hockey-like game called “Genna,” which legend says was played by the shepherds the night Jesus was born.
5. Adwa Victory Day
When: March 2, Where: Menelik II Square and the new Adwa 00 Museum
This is Ethiopia’s most significant secular holiday. It celebrates the 1896 victory of Ethiopian forces over the Italian army, making Ethiopia the only African nation to never be colonized.
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The Parade: Veterans and locals gather in military dress and traditional warrior capes (Kaba) to celebrate national pride with music, speeches, and poetry.
Tips for Festival Travel
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Book Early: Hotels in the Bole and Kazanchis areas fill up months in advance for Meskel and Timkat.
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Respect the Ritual: While tourists are welcomed with open arms, remember these are deeply religious events. Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered) and ask before taking close-up photos of priests or pilgrims.
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The White Dress: Many visitors buy a traditional white cotton Netela (scarf) to wear during the festivals—it’s a great way to show respect and blend in with the local crowd.