The Ethiopian New Year falls in September on 11th of it or Meskerem 1st according to Ethiopians. It is manifested by the spotless sun all the day long which creates an atmosphere of impressive clarity and fresh clean air. The highlands turn to gold as the Meskel which is celebrated on the 28th of September daisies brust out in all their majesty.
Timket is the greatest festival of the year, falling on 19th January. It is actually three day affair, beginning on the eve of Timket with dramatic and colorful processions.
This festivity is celebrated on Sunday that comes following meskel. Irecha means, according to Oromo’s, Thanks giving day to their “Waqa “or god.
The commemoration of Mary, “Hidar Tsion” is associated with the presence of the Ark of the Covenant in Axum and the belief that the Ark itself is a symbolism to Her Womb.
Finding of the True Cross, 27 September
Legend has it that the cross on which Christ was crucified was discovered in the year 326 by Empress Helen, the mother of Constantine the Great. Unable to find the Holy Sepulchre, she prayed for help and was directed by the smoke of an incense burner to where the cross was buried.