Foreign Tourists Impressed by Irreechaa Festival 

Addis Ababa, October 4, 2025 (ENA) -- Foreign tourists who celebrated the Irreechaa Hora Finfinnee, the Oromo thanksgiving festival, stated that they were impressed by the colorful celebrations they had seen.

Irreechaa Hora Finfinnee was colorfully celebrated in Addis Ababa today.

The Irish professor, Nicell McKeown, told Gazette Plus he was struck by the festival's authenticity. "It is a powerful moment of humanity that depicts the authentic cultural values of the community itself."

 

First-time attendee Tim Cole from England was particularly captivated by the vibrant display of traditional clothing. Both men unanimously recommended the festival to fellow global travelers, describing it as a unique and world-class celebration.

 

They added that international tourists should come to Ethiopia and visit the vibrant culture of Irreechaa.    

He added that it was the second time he was celebrating the Irreechaa holiday in Ethiopia.

According to him, the celebration and the development of Addis Ababa are improving from time to time.

Irreechaa shows the extent to which the culture of Oromo is rich, Professor Nicell said, urging the relevant authorities to promote the cultural holiday worldwide.

Tim Cole, who came from England for the first time to celebrate Irreechaa, expressed excitement, saying he was fascinated by the events he saw.

 

He stated that efforts should be made to support and preserve Irreechaa and maintain its cultural assets and pass it on to the next generation.

Their shared message is clear: the Irreecha Thanksgiving is an unparalleled experience worthy of international acclaim and attendance.

Ugandan attendee Joel Obertan, on his part, praised the festival's "beautiful togetherness" and diverse attire, calling it a must-see "cultural adventure" with significant potential to boost tourism.

 

Echoing this sentiment, Shami Volg described Irreecha as a vital force for promoting "peace, love, and fraternity."

 

Participants urged the festival to be elevated to an international status, aligning with Addis Ababa's modern transformation.

The consensus among foreign observers is clear: Irreecha is a cherished festival that holds the key to fostering deeper regional partnerships.

They further stated that international guests are celebrating the Irreecha festival, not only for its stunning display of Oromo culture but also for its power to unite communities in East Africa.

Therefore, the holiday is vital to strengthen ties between East African people in the social, economic, and tourism sectors, he added.

The cultural costumes and songs displayed at the festival show the unity of the people, Shami noted.

Along with the holiday, she pointed out that Addis Ababa is rapidly growing. She advised other countries to learn from the exemplary developments in the city.

Joel Obertan expressed his happiness at attending the celebration of Thanksgiving, adding that the holiday has different cultural values.

He further stressed that the festival is a holiday that strengthens the relationship among the people of East Africa.