Religion plays an important part of life in Ethiopia. The Orthodox Church ceremonies are unique and impressive; especially Enkutatash (Ethiopian New Year), Timket (Epiphany) and Meskel (The finding of cross) festivals which provide colorful ceremonies and celebrations.
People dress in traditional costume mainly made at home with woven cotton and celebrate festivals across the country. Ethiopia has a number of festivals throughout the year, starting with spring.
- The time of the Ethiopian New year, also called Enkutatash or Kidus Yohannes is celebrated on 11 September or ‘Meskerem’ 1. This is also the beginning of the harvest season and end of rainy period, which is a time for parties and weddings.
- Another major religious celebration is Meskel, which falls on 27 or 28 September, celebrated in memory of the finding of the true cross in Mount Tabor by the Empress Heleni. There will be a big bon-fire to be erected in big open-air areas surrounded by group of priests and deacons with colorful costumes, songs and hymens.