Meskel is a significant annual religious holiday in Ethiopia, celebrated with great pomp and ceremony by the Ethiopian Orthodox Church to commemorate the discovery of the True Cross. The word Meskel means 'cross' in Amharic, the official language of Ethiopia. It is one of the oldest holidays in Ethiopia, with traditions going back over 1600 years. It falls on the 17th of Meskerem in the Ethiopian calendar, which is September 27th or 28th in the Gregorian calendar.
The celebration of Meskel includes a variety of activities that are religious, social, and cultural in nature. The day before Meskel, it's traditional to fast and pray. On the day of the holiday, the rhythms of traditional music fill the air and everyone dresses in traditional attire. The main religious ceremony is the burning of a huge bonfire, or Demera, in the early evening where the faithful crowd around and sing religious songs. Priests in full ceremonial attire circle the bonfire, chanting and carrying flaming torches. The fire symbolizes the actions of Queen Eleni who, according to legend, had a revelation in a dream to make a bonfire and the smoke would show where the True Cross was buried.
The following day, Ethiopians head outdoors for the day for a feast that includes meat and traditional dishes. This is also a time for people to spend with family and friends. Ash from the bonfire is also used to mark the foreheads of the faithful in the form of a cross, a practice that symbolizes the sufferings of Christ. Meskel is not just a time for religious reflection, but also a time for communities to come together, strengthening social bonds. Its festive atmosphere and rich traditions make it a must-see event for anyone interested in Ethiopian culture.