Ethiopian New Year Celebrated at Our Lady of Fatima Catholic School in Toronto
Our Lady of Fatima Catholic School in Toronto came alive with the vibrant colors, music, and traditions of Ethiopia as students, staff, and parents gathered to celebrate the Ethiopian New Year. The festivities were a special tribute to the Ethiopian community within the school, and the event was filled with joy, culture, and unity.
The traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony, hosted by the parents of Ethiopian students was attended by the school’s principal and teachers The ceremony symbolizes community, respect, and hospitality.
Students of Ethiopian descent proudly arrived in their traditional attire, showcasing the rich diversity of Ethiopian fashion. White cotton clothes adorned with colorful embroidery were common among the students, reflecting the heritage of various regions in Ethiopia. Traditional Ethiopian songs were played in the background.
Traditional Ethiopian dish was served and the participants treated to the tasty Ethiopian cuisine.
Parents told Ethiofidel that many students, in a show of solidarity and respect, dressed in yellow to honor the yellow daisy flower—Adey Abeba—which blooms at the start of the Ethiopian New Year. The flower symbolizes renewal, growth, and the beauty of the season, reflecting the themes of the celebration.
Ethiopia, follows its own calendar which is about seven to eight years behind the Gregorian calendar, and the Ethiopian New Year, known as Enkutatash, is celebrated on September 11th (or 12th in a leap year). This calendar consists of 13 months, 12 months of 30 days and a 13th month of five or six days. Enkutatash marks the end of the rainy season and the start of spring, symbolizing a time of new beginnings and prosperity.
In a heartwarming gesture of support for the Ethiopian community, Our Lady of Fatima Catholic School posted a message on its Twitter account: “ Happy Ethiopian New year. A great day to eat and experience the beauty, vibrant colors and excitement of the new year “ .
Photo Our Lady of Fatima and Meaza Belay
