Discover the Joyous Celebration of Ethiopian New Year - A Guide to Festivities and Traditions
Ethiopia is a country full of diverse cultures and traditions. One of the most significant celebrations in Ethiopia is the Ethiopian New Year, which falls on September 11th every year.
Have you ever wondered why this specific date was chosen as the start of the Ethiopian New Year? Well, it's because Ethiopia follows the Julian calendar, which is seven years behind the Gregorian calendar that's widely used in the Western world.
Are you familiar with the Ethiopian calendar? It consists of thirteen months, with twelve months having thirty days each and the last month containing only five or six days. Ethiopians celebrate the New Year, which they call Enkutatash, on the first day of the month of Meskerem, which corresponds to September in the Gregorian calendar.
The celebration of Enkutatash is not only limited to Ethiopia. Did you know that Ethiopians abroad also commemorate this day? From Australia to Canada, Ethiopians gather to celebrate the coming of the New Year.
What makes Enkutatash unique is the tradition of exchanging flowers and gifts between friends and family. Children also get excited about this holiday as they receive new clothes and enjoy special dishes such as Doro Wat and Injera with their loved ones.
Did you know that Enkutatash is also a time where forgiveness and reconciliation occur? A common practice is to ask for forgiveness from loved ones and start the New Year on a clean slate.
Enkutatash isn't just a one-day affair. The festivities continue for three days, with the second day being known as Mesorah Eders. This day is significant as it marks the end of the rainy season and the beginning of the sunny weather in Ethiopia.
Did you know that Enkutatash is a public holiday in Ethiopia? Government offices, schools, and businesses are closed, giving Ethiopians the opportunity to spend quality time with their loved ones and enjoy the festivities.
Enkutatash isn't just a celebration for Ethiopians; people from all walks of life attend the colorful parades and concerts that take place in cities such as Addis Ababa and Gondar.
Are you interested in experiencing Enkutatash first-hand? Plan your trip to Ethiopia in late August or early September to witness the joy and excitement of this one-of-a-kind celebration. I promise you won't regret it!
In conclusion, Enkutatash is more than just a New Year's celebration. It's a time where Ethiopians come together to celebrate their rich culture and traditions, to ask for forgiveness, and to look forward to a fresh start. Whether you're in Ethiopia or abroad, take part in the festivities and experience this unique celebration for yourself.
"When Ethiopian New Year" ~ bbaz
The Joyous Celebration of Ethiopian New Year
As the sun rises over Ethiopia on September 11th, people joyfully celebrate New Year or Enkutatash. It is a time of renewal when the rainy season ends and the country bursts to life with colorful flowers. Ethiopians enter the year with spiritual zeal, hope, and expectation.
History of the Ethiopian Calendar
The Ethiopian calendar, also known as the Ge'ez calendar, has 13 months, and it dates back to the Coptic calendar in Egypt. The Coptic church and the Ethiopian Orthodox church both use this calendar. The first month of the Ethiopian calendar is Meskerem, which falls in September in the Gregorian calendar.
There are many theories about the origin of the name Enkutatash. Some say that it comes from a story about the Queen of Sheba returning from a visit to King Solomon and asking her chiefs for gifts of jewels. The chiefs replied with enku, which means jewels, and tatash, which means new or gifts.
Preparing for the New Year
Ethiopian new year is a time to reflect on the past year's successes and failures and make plans for the new year. People start preparing for the holiday weeks before it begins. They buy decorations such as yellow daisies, which are a symbol of peace and hope, and they clean their houses and whitewash them.
The day before Enkutatash is called Demera, which means bonfire. Bonfires are lit in towns and villages, and people dance and sing around them. The bonfires represent the end of the rainy season, and people ask for health and prosperity in the new year.
Celebrating Enkutatash
On the day of Enkutatash, people dress up in traditional clothes and attend church services. They receive a blessing from the priest, and young children carry bouquets of flowers. People visit their families and friends and give gifts such as bread, honey, or coffee beans.
In Addis Ababa, the capital city of Ethiopia, there is a colorful procession called the Maskal Square, where people march with bonfires and bright yellow daisies. The procession ends with a fireworks display, and people enjoy music, food, and dancing.
Enkutatash Traditions
The Ethiopian new year is a time of joy and hope, but it is also a time for people to remember their traditions. One of these traditions is called Kitfo, which is made of ground beef, and it is served with injera, a traditional bread. People also drink tej, a honey wine, and tell stories about the past.
Another popular tradition is called Erecha, which is a festival that takes place after Enkutatash. It is celebrated by the Oromo people, and it is a time for thanking and praising God for a good harvest. People gather at lakes and rivers and perform rituals, dances, and songs.
Conclusion
Ethiopian new year is a time for people to hope, pray, and celebrate. It is an opportunity to let go of the old and welcome in the new. The tradition, culture, and history of Enkutatash are unique and beautiful, just like the people of Ethiopia.
So, this Enkutatash, let’s cheer up and make some positive resolutions for ourselves, our communities, and our world. Let us hope that the new year brings peace, love, and prosperity for all.
When Ethiopian New Year: A Comparison
The Background of Ethiopian New Year
Ethiopian New Year, also known as Enkutatash in Amharic language, is celebrated on September 11 or 12 every year. It marks the end of the rainy season and the beginning of a new one. This holiday is significant for many Ethiopians, as it symbolizes new beginnings and a time to reflect on the past year's successes and failures.The Difference Between Ethiopian and Western New Year
While most countries celebrate New Year on January 1st, Ethiopia follows the Julian calendar, which is about seven years and eight months behind the Gregorian calendar commonly used in the West. For instance, as of 2021, Ethiopia is in the year 2014. This difference in calendars means that Ethiopian New Year is typically celebrated about eight months after the Western New Year.The Celebration
During Ethiopian New Year, people commonly wear traditional clothes and head to church for special prayers and festivities. Families and friends also gather to share meals and exchange gifts. Fasting is common in the days leading up to Enkutatash, with some people refraining from eating meat or dairy products.Table Comparison: Ethiopian vs. Western New Year
| Ethiopian New Year | Western New Year | |
|---|---|---|
| Date | September 11-12 | January 1 |
| Calendar | Julian | Gregorian |
| Celebration | Church, family gatherings, gifts | Fireworks, parties, countdown |
| Traditions | Fasting, cultural dress | Resolutions, champagne, kisses at midnight |
The Significance of Enkutatash
Aside from marking the New Year, Enkutatash also has historical and religious significance. It commemorates the return of the Queen of Sheba to Ethiopia after visiting King Solomon in Israel. This event has been celebrated for centuries and continues to be an important part of the modern Ethiopian culture.The Food
As with any celebration, food plays an essential role in Ethiopian New Year. Doro Wat, a spicy chicken stew, and injera, a flatbread made from teff flour, are customary dishes. In fact, many people say that Enkutatash is not complete without these foods on the table.The Music and Dancing
Music and dance are vital elements of Ethiopian culture, and that is certainly reflected in the celebrations of Enkutatash. During the holiday, people dance to traditional songs, often accompanied by drums and other instruments. This makes for a joyous and energetic atmosphere that is sure to lift spirits.Opinion: The Beauty of Different Cultures
Although Ethiopian and Western New Year celebrations share some similarities, they are also distinctly different. This diversity is what makes the world such a fascinating and enriching place. By celebrating cultures that differ from our own, we can broaden our perspectives and appreciate the beauty of humanity's differences.When Ethiopian New Year: Tips and Traditions
Ethiopian New Year, also known as Enkutatash, is celebrated on September 11 (12 on leap years) according to the Ethiopian calendar. This holiday marks the end of the rainy season and the start of the harvest season. Ethiopians celebrate this day with various traditions and customs that have been passed on from generation to generation. If you're curious about Ethiopian culture and want to learn more about Enkutatash, here are some tips and traditions that you should know:The History of Enkutatash
Enkutatash means gift of jewels in Amharic, the official language of Ethiopia. The holiday commemorates the return of Queen Sheba to Ethiopia after her famous visit to King Solomon in Jerusalem around 3000 years ago. Legend has it that upon her return, the people of Ethiopia welcomed her with flowers and jewels as a sign of their love and loyalty to their queen. Enkutatash is also associated with the Biblical story of Noah's Ark, as Ethiopia is believed to be one of the countries that housed the ark during the great flood.Preparing for Enkutatash
Preparations for Enkutatash begin a few weeks in advance. Homes are cleaned and decorated with flowers, and traditional dishes such as injera (a sourdough flatbread) and doro wat (a spicy chicken stew) are prepared. New clothes are purchased, and families gather together to exchange gifts and share a feast. On the day of Enkutatash, people dress up in their best clothes and head to church to attend a special mass.Traditions and Customs
One of the most popular traditions of Enkutatash is the burning of daisies, which symbolizes the end of the rainy season. People also exchange New Year greetings and wishes for prosperity and good health. In some parts of Ethiopia, young boys and girls go from door to door singing songs and receiving small gifts. The holiday is also a time for forgiveness and reconciliation between family members and friends. Many people visit their loved ones and offer them gifts as a sign of their love and appreciation.Celebrating Enkutatash
Enkutatash is celebrated throughout Ethiopia, but some of the best places to experience the holiday are in Addis Ababa, Lalibela, and Gondar. In Addis Ababa, there is a large bonfire ceremony at Meskel Square, where people gather to dance and celebrate. In Lalibela, there is a colorful procession of priests and worshippers, and in Gondar, there is a parade of beautifully decorated horses and musicians.Tips for Travelers
If you're planning a trip to Ethiopia during Enkutatash, here are some tips to help you make the most of your experience:- Book your accommodations well in advance, as rooms fill up quickly during this time.- Dress modestly and respectfully when attending church or visiting local communities.- Be prepared to eat a lot of injera and other traditional foods.- Learn some basic phrases in Amharic to show respect and build rapport with the locals.- Be prepared to navigate crowded streets and busy markets.In Conclusion
Enkutatash is a joyful and festive holiday that brings together families, communities, and visitors from around the world. It's a time to give thanks for the blessings of the past year and to look forward to the opportunities and challenges of the year ahead. Whether you're attending a church service, dancing around a bonfire, or exploring local traditions, Enkutatash is a unique and unforgettable experience that will stay with you for years to come.When Ethiopian New Year?
Ethiopia is a country in East Africa that follows the Julian calendar used around the world until the 16th century. This means that they celebrate their New Year on a different date from the rest of the world. If you are interested in learning about the Ethiopian New Year, this article will provide you with all the information you need.
The Ethiopian New Year, also known as Enkutatash, falls on September 11 or September 12 every year. This holiday marks the end of the rainy season, which is a vital time for agriculture in Ethiopia as it brings the much-needed rainwater to the fields. The name Enkutatash means gift of jewels, and it represents the time when the Queen of Sheba returned from visiting King Solomon in Jerusalem. To welcome her return, flowers and jewels were laid down in her path.
The celebrations of the Ethiopian New Year last for three days, and the first day is the most important. On this day, people wear new clothes, and church services are held across the country. The Ethiopian Orthodox Church plays a significant role in the celebration as many Ethiopians are devout Christians. The church service includes hymns, prayers, and blessings by priests, and the occasion is also marked with drumming, dancing, and chanting.
On the second day of the celebration, people visit family and friends, and children will go from door to door, singing New Year's songs and asking for money or treats. Families exchange gifts with one another, and traditional food such as injera (a sourdough flatbread) and doro wat (a spicy chicken stew) is consumed. The third day is reserved for rest and relaxation, and people will normally spend it with their families at home or going out for picnics.
The Ethiopian New Year is an occasion for joy and merrymaking, but it's also a time for reflection. It's a time to reflect on the achievements and failures of the past year and set new goals for the upcoming one. Many people take this opportunity to forgive those who have wronged them and seek forgiveness for their mistakes. It's a time for renewed hope and positivity for the future.
One unique aspect of the Ethiopian New Year celebration is the tradition of the damera ceremony. This is a significant part of the holiday, and it involves burning incense and playing drums. The damera ceremony is held in all major towns and cities across Ethiopia, and it signals the start of the new year. It's a time when people come together to dance and sing, and the celebration lasts well into the night.
If you're visiting Ethiopia during the New Year celebrations, there are a few things that you should bear in mind. Firstly, it's important to respect the customs and traditions of the country and not to be offended if you are asked for money or treats by children. Secondly, it's a good idea to book accommodation in advance as this is a busy time of year, and many places will get fully booked. Lastly, it's worth noting that some businesses and attractions may be closed during the celebrations.
In conclusion, the Ethiopian New Year is a unique and vibrant festival that celebrates the beginning of a new year and the end of the rainy season. It's a time for reflection, forgiveness, and positivity, and it's celebrated with enthusiasm across the country. If you ever get the chance to visit Ethiopia during the New Year celebrations, grab the opportunity with both hands, and experience the magic of this special occasion.
Thank you for reading about the Ethiopian New Year. We hope that you have gained some valuable insights into this unique and special occasion. Don't forget to mark your calendars for September 11 or September 12 and celebrate the Ethiopian New Year with us next year!
People Also Ask About Ethiopian New Year
What is Ethiopian New Year?
Ethiopian New Year, also known as Enkutatash in Amharic language, is the first day of the year in the Ethiopian calendar. It falls on September 11th or September 12th, according to the Gregorian calendar.
Why is Ethiopian New Year celebrated on September 11th or 12th?
Ethiopian New Year is celebrated on September 11th or 12th because the Ethiopian calendar is based on the ancient Coptic calendar, which is closely related to the Julian calendar. The Coptic calendar has twelve months of 30 days each and a thirteenth month with five or six days, depending on whether it’s a leap year or not.
How is Ethiopian New Year celebrated?
Ethiopian New Year is celebrated with great enthusiasm and happiness. People buy new clothes, exchange gifts, decorate their homes with flowers and greenery, and make traditional food and drinks. In Addis Ababa, the capital city, there is a big street party with music, dancing, and parades.
What are some traditional foods eaten during Ethiopian New Year?
- Injera – a sourdough flatbread made from fermented teff flour, which is used as a utensil to scoop up stews and other dishes.
- Doro wat – a spicy chicken stew made with berbere spice mix, onions, garlic, and ginger.
- Tibs – grilled or fried meat served with injera and vegetables.
- Mitmita – a spicy chili powder used as a condiment for meat and vegetable dishes.
- Tella – a traditional beer made from teff or barley.
- Tej – a honey wine that is sweet and flavorful.
What is the significance of Ethiopian New Year?
Ethiopian New Year has historical and religious significance. According to tradition, the Queen of Sheba, who ruled Ethiopia in ancient times, returned from a visit to King Solomon in Jerusalem and brought back the Ark of the Covenant. This event is said to have occurred on the first day of the Ethiopian calendar, hence Enkutatash means gift of jewels in Amharic. The day also marks the end of the rainy season and the beginning of the harvest season.