ENKUTATASH/ETHIOPIAN NEW YEAR

Enkutatash means the “gift of jewels” held in September 11. It is Ethiopian New Year’s Day also named as “Kidus Yohannes” as it is the annual communion of St John the Baptist. It is also a celebration of the commencement of springtime. This grand celebration features annual traditions such as slaughtering animals like sheep and chicken, grilling corn, coffee ceremony, spreading fresh grass on the floor, drinking Araki, preparing special dishes like “Doro wat”, and singing and dancing.