YeAelafat Zemare
Description
YeAelafat Zemare takes place on January 6, the eve of Genna, at Meskel Square in Addis Ababa. The gathering begins in the afternoon and continues into the evening, bringing together thousands of people for a communal celebration of the birth of Christ. The event is centered on singing and religious hymns, accompanied by short prayers and candlelight. Ethiopian Orthodox Christians make up the main participants, while others who wish to join in singing and celebrating the birth of Christ may also attend. White clothing is customary and recommended for the gathering. Many participants wear traditional white clothing associated with attending an Ethiopian Orthodox church, while women commonly cover their hair. YeAelafat Zemare is a religious gathering rather than a performance or festival. Visitors may observe and photograph the event, but should remain respectful of the worshippers and the religious nature of the occasion.
Do
- Arrive from the afternoon if you want to experience the gathering as it develops into the evening.
- Wear modest white clothing in keeping with the customary dress of participants.
- Observe and enjoy the singing, hymns, prayers, and candlelight respectfully.
- Cover your hair if you are a woman, in keeping with the customary Orthodox church dress.
- Photography is welcome, while remaining respectful of worshippers.
- Follow instructions from authorities and organizers around Meskel Square.
- Allow space for worshippers and those taking part in the singing and prayers.
Don't
- Do not interrupt prayers, hymns, or religious singing.
- Do not treat the gathering only as an entertainment event.
- Do not behave disrespectfully toward worshippers or religious practices.
- Do not enter restricted areas without permission.
- Do not block gathering areas or interfere with participants.
- Do not make assumptions about individual participants or their religious practices.
- Do not ignore instructions from authorities during the large gathering.
