A New Year of Fresh Beginnings: Ethiopian New Year is Sept. 11
Ethiopian New Year, also known as Enkutatash, is quickly approaching, and there’s no better time to experience the culture and cuisine of this African country than at one of Atlanta’s Ethiopian restaurants such as Feedel Bistro.
Ethiopia follows a 13-month calendar; however, on the Gregorian calendar, Ethiopian New Year falls on Sept. 11 each year. According to the Bible, God created the earth during September, giving the month spiritual significance. September also has an equal number of daylight and nighttime hours, which adds to the importance. Despite the seemingly religious history, Enkutatash is not an exclusively religious holiday and is celebrated by believers and nonbelievers, as it is known to be a period for communities and families to embrace shared experiences and heal grievances. The day begins with traditional songs, typically performed by groups of Ethiopian girls. A traditional chicken stew and injera meal is beautifully paired with plenty of traditional honey-based wine and fresh Ethiopian coffee. Celebrations continue throughout the entire night, ending as the sun rises.
Families that lean into tradition welcome guests with bouquets of yellow flowers found on the foothills surrounding Addis Ababa, the same flowers that greeted the Ethiopian Queen of Sheba. Legend has it, King Solomon gave the Queen jewels during her visit over 3,000 years ago. Upon her return, yellow flowers bloomed in the foothills surrounding Addis Ababa, signifying the end of a long drought and the start of new life within the country. In honor of their former empress, the festival was named Enkutatash, meaning the “gift of the jewels.”