Irreecha Thanksgiving Festival — Hora Finfinne

Irreecha is the Oromo people's great thanksgiving, marking the end of the rainy season: millions dressed in dazzling cultural attire dip fresh grass and daisies into the sacred waters of Hora Finfinne in gratitude to Waaqa (God). The Addis Ababa celebration is traditionally held on the Saturday, with the historic main gathering at Hora Harsadi in Bishoftu the following day. Rituals start early in the morning; roads around the site close and crowds are enormous, so go at first light with a local guide if possible. Note: the 2026 date is still an estimate based on the festival's late-September/early-October pattern (2025 was Oct 4-5) — confirm locally closer to the date.

Events in Addis change often — confirm with the organizer before heading out.