Enkutatash

Enkutatash is a traditional Ethiopian celebration marking the beginning of the new Ethiopian year. It coincides with the Ethiopian Orthodox Church's celebration of Meskel, the finding of the True Cross on September 11 to 12. However, Enkutatash is essentially a nine-day celebration that starts around September 11 with the Meskel festivities.

Traditionally, the old year ended on the Ethiopian New Year's Eve when the sun set on the ninth day of the ninth month. This marked the end of the seventh month of the Ethiopian calendar. The eve was a time for family gatherings and forgiveness. However, in modern times, this tradition is still observed but has undergone changes.

The exact date of Enkutatash in the Gregorian calendar varies every year due to the differences in the two calendars. The Ethiopian calendar is seven to eight years behind the Gregorian calendar. As a result of this discrepancy, the Ethiopian New Year celebration occurs between mid-September and early October.

In Ethiopia, Enkutatash marks the beginning of spring and a renewal of life. On the day of Enkutatash, people take on new names, treat each other with kindness, and forgive past offenses. In urban Ethiopia, Enkutatash celebrations feature parades, cultural exhibitions, and parties. Little girls are dressed in traditional attire and paints foods in symbolic colors.