Ethiopia's National Holidays Calendar & Guide

Discover all of Ethiopia's public holidays—from Enkutatash (New Year) to Meskel and Adwa Victory Day—complete with dates and cultural insights.

Plan your year around major national observances, learn their origins, and see how each holiday is celebrated across the country.

• Meskerem 1 (Enkutatash): Ethiopian New Year, marking the end of the rainy season.
• Tir 11 (Timket): Epiphany festival featuring colorful processions and water blessings.
• Tahsas 29 (Genna): Ethiopian Christmas, celebrated with church services and communal feasts.
• Yekatit 23 (Adwa Victory Day): Commemorates the 1896 defeat of Italian forces at Adwa.
• Meskerem 17 (Meskel): Finding of the True Cross, celebrated with bonfires (Demera) and festivities.
• Fasika (Easter): Honors the Resurrection with special liturgies and traditional meals.

Keep this guide handy to never miss a national celebration—whether you're planning travel, time off, or simply want to join in the festivities.