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Winter 2015

Celebration

Jan 19: Ethiopian Orthodox Clergy and followers sing and chant while accompanying the Tabot, a model

The biggest traditional celebration in my birth country is called Timket. It's a holiday on January 19. On that day, most people dress traditionally, and some traditional games need to be played.

The purpose of the celebration is to honour the day Jesus was baptized. Still now, it happens in a very traditional way. For example, most people leave their home around 10 am and go to the river. When all the people are gathered, the priest starts to bless the water, and they spray water on the people.

This celebration happens widely in Eritrea and Ethiopia. After that, everyone returns to the church and when they get to the church usually, some activities are going on, such as serving food and sports. At the end, all people greet each other and wish to meet the coming year again.