Fasika, also known as Ethiopian Easter, is one of the most significant religious holidays celebrated in Ethiopia. The holiday marks the end of the 'Great Lent', a fifty-five-days-long fasting period preceding Easter Sunday. It commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ after his crucifixion, as per Christian beliefs. Fasika is celebrated by millions of Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church followers, the predominant Christian denomination in the country.
The celebrations of Fasika are observed punctually, which involves fasting, praying, and attending church services. The fasting period, also known as Hudadi, is considered one of the most stringent, during which fasting individuals only eat one vegan meal a day. On the Saturday night before Fasika, a night-long church service commences, which concludes with the announcement of Christ’s resurrection on Sunday morning. This moment, called the Fasilides, is marked with joyous singing, dancing, and bell ringing.
Following religious observances, feasting plays an integral part in Fasika. The rigorous fasting period is followed by a feast enjoyed with friends and family. The feast typically includes Doro Wat, a spicy chicken stew, and Injera, a flatbread, both traditional Ethiopian dishes. Special bread called 'Defo Dabo' is also baked for the occasion. The day is spent in merrymaking, eating, drinking, and experiencing the unity that the holiday fosters. Each year, Fasika serves as a potent symbol of faith, sacrifice, and festivity to Ethiopian Orthodox Christians.