Happy Ethiopian New Year!

By Melinda Sallé, Ethiopia Project Director

It is 2017 today in Ethiopia! Celebrate by making a gift to Bete Hosanna, which will be DOUBLED through our $25,000 matching grant!

Enkutatash is the Ethiopian New Year, but unlike New Year’s celebrations in many other parts of the world, it doesn’t take place on December 31 but on September 11. Bright yellow flowers blanket the landscape, symbolizing a new cycle of life and prosperity. The Maskel daisies, or Adey Abeba, are a symbol of the Ethiopian New Year.

A traditional meal of chicken stew and injera is washed down with traditional honey-based wine and fresh Ethiopian coffee. As nighttime approaches, families gather and begin building a bonfire, which is lit once night falls. From here, celebrations last all night long and end at sunrise.

One of the most fascinating practices of the New Year is when groups of young Ethiopian girls go around performing a song called ‘Abebayehosh.” You could be at home watching TV or just out for a leisure stroll when the girls approach, serenading you with song and some pretty good drumming. Check out this adorable video created by ChildFund International of Ethiopian girls singing the song.We

We hope you have enjoyed this short trip to Ethiopia! If you’d like to visit the country in person, we’d love to take you on a mission trip next year. Our 2025 schedule isn’t out yet, but it will be soon!

In the meantime, email missions@awaa.org with any questions you have.