01 · MEANING
What it means.
Enkutatash means "gift of jewels" and marks Meskerem 1, the first day of the Ethiopian calendar. It is both a national new beginning and a celebration of the bright spring season that follows kiremt, the main rains.
02 · TRADITION
How it is marked.
Families exchange good wishes and share a festive meal. Children, especially groups of girls, may sing from house to house and offer flowers or hand-drawn New Year pictures in return for gifts.
03 · EXPERIENCE
What you may see.
Look for white traditional clothing, fresh grass and the yellow adey abeba flower. Homes fill with coffee, incense and food, while songs carry New Year blessings through neighbourhoods.