Festivals & Events
Immerse yourself in Ethiopian culture by planning your trip around these vibrant celebrations.
January 19-20
Timket (Epiphany)
Nationwide, especially Gondar
Ethiopia's most important festival, celebrating the baptism of Jesus in the Jordan River. Tabots (replicas of the Ark of the Covenant) are paraded to a nearby body of water.
September 27
Meskel (Finding of the True Cross)
Nationwide, especially Addis Ababa
Commemorates the 4th-century discovery of the cross on which Jesus was crucified. The festival is marked by large bonfires, known as Demera, and colorful processions.
January 7
Genna (Ethiopian Christmas)
Nationwide, especially Lalibela
Celebrated with all-night church services, processions, and traditional games. The celebrations in Lalibela are particularly famous.