Ethiopian Festivals
The religious festivals of the Ethiopian Orthodox church are a highlight of the Ethiopian calendar with ceremonies held throughout the country. According to legend, Menelik I, the son of the Queen of Sheba and King Solomon, went to visit his father in Jerusalem, and he brought back to Ethiopia the Ark of the Covenant, containing the tablets God had given to Moses and is said to be still preserved in Axum. Every Ethiopian church contains a copy of the Ark of the Covenant, called “Tabot”. During some religious ceremonies these copies are hidden in heavy and colorful brocades and carried in processions.

07JAN
Gena Ethiopian Christmas
The colorful ceremony of Christmas Eve is held within the unforgettable rock hewn churches of Lalibela. ...Read more


18JAN
Eve of Timket (Epiphany)
The holy Tabot, a replica of the Ark of the Covenant, is taken from each church to a central area ...Read more


19JAN
Timket Baptism of Christ
The festival commemorates Christ’s baptism in the Jordan River by John the Baptist. ...Read more


05APR
Hosanna Palm Sunday
The Sunday before Easter is the Feast of Hosanna or known as Palm Sunday. ...Read more


12APR
Fasika Ethiopian Easter
A fascinating all night prayer vigil is available at all Orthodox Churches. ...Read more


19AUG
Buhe Transfiguration Feast
Buhe commemorates the transfiguration of Jesus on Mount Tabor. ...Read more


12SEP
Enkutatash Ethiopian New Year
Enkutatash represents the first day of the New Year in Ethiopia. ...Read more


28SEP
Meskel Finding of The True Cross
This vibrant national holiday has been observed throughout the country by Ethiopian Christians for over 1,600 years. ...Read more


01DEC
Hidar Tsion
Hidar Tsion is the main festival celebrated in Axum. The Mariam Tsion church in Axum is said to house the Ark of the Covenant. ...Read more
