In Ethiopia, the Epiphany is known as Timkat, which is a major and highly anticipated religious festival celebrated on the 19th of January each year. The holiday commemorates the baptism of Jesus Christ in the Jordan River by John the Baptist. It is one of the holiest and most colorful events of the year in Ethiopia, drawing a throng of religious faithful and visitors who participate in the festivities with much enthusiasm and reverence.
The celebration of Epiphany in Ethiopia begins with a day of fasting, followed by a joyous procession that represents the journey of the Arc of the Covenant, which Ethiopian Orthodox Christians believe to be held in Axum, in the northern part of the country. Priests, draped in bright robes and clasping ornate crosses, lead the procession, accompanied by the rhythmic beat of traditional drums and sistrum, a type of musical instrument. The procession heads towards a body of water, symbolic of the Jordan River, where the communal baptism ritual is performed.
On the day of Timkat, early in the morning, the water body is blessed by the highest-ranking priest and then he baptizes the assembled congregation in a reenactment of the baptism of Christ. Pools and rivers are found with parishioners looking to renew their religious commitments. After the ceremony, there are feasts and festivities, with traditional music and dances, where families and friends get together to celebrate. The holiday serves not only as a religious observance but also as a vital occasion for reunion and rejuvenation of community bonds.