Irreecha Arfaasaa (the spring thanksgiving festival) being celebrated on May 18, 2025, at Tulluu Dandenong (likely a reference to the Dandenong Ranges in Victoria, Australia). This appears to be a diaspora celebration organized by the Oromo community in Melbourne, Oromo Irrecha Association, Advocacy for Oromia. Here’s a breakdown of its significance and context:

—

1. Irreecha Arfaasaa

– Traditionally celebrated in April/May in Oromia/Ethiopia to welcome the *Arfaasaa* (spring rains) and express gratitude for agricultural renewal.

– Dates follow the **Oromo lunar calendar** (*Ayyana* system), so Gregorian dates shift slightly each year. However, diaspora communities often adapt the timing for practical or symbolic reasons (e.g., aligning with local seasons or weekends).

—

2. May 18, 2025

– In 2025, May 18 falls on a Sunday, which is a common choice for diaspora cultural events to maximize community participation.

– While the exact Oromo calendar date for Irreecha Arfaasaa in 2025 would need to be calculated based on lunar cycles, diaspora communities sometimes fix the Gregorian date for consistency and planning purposes. This is not uncommon, as maintaining traditions abroad often involves adaptation.

—

3. Tulluu Dandenong

– “Tulluu” means “mountain” in Afaan Oromo. The **Dandenong Ranges** near Melbourne are a lush, forested area, symbolically echoing the sacred mountainous landscapes central to Irreecha in Oromia/Ethiopia (e.g., Hora Arsadi).

– Celebrating Irreecha in natural settings like the Dandenongs helps diaspora Oromo communities reconnect with their cultural roots and create a sense of home away from home.

—

4. Why This Matters

– **Cultural Preservation**: For the Oromo diaspora, events like this reinforce identity, language, and traditions among younger generations.

– **Symbolism**: The choice of a mountain (Tulluu) reflects the spiritual connection to nature inherent in Irreecha, even in a diaspora context.

– **Community Unity**: Such gatherings strengthen solidarity and provide a space for collective healing, especially for communities impacted by displacement or political struggles in Oromia/Ethiopia.

—

5. **How to Participate**

– If you plan to attend, contact local Oromo organizations in Melbourne (e.g., **Oromo Community in Melbourne, Oromo Irrecha Association, Advocacy for Oromia **) for details. Activities may include:

– Traditional songs (*Geerarsa*), dances (*Keelloo*), and blessings (*Irreeffannaa* rituals).

– Speeches, cultural displays, and communal meals.

– Ceremonies with *fresh grass* (symbolizing peace) and *flowers* (symbolizing fertility), as in traditional Irreecha.

—

Note on Accuracy

While the **May 18, 2025** date is likely fixed by the organizing community, always verify with local organizers closer to the event. Diaspora celebrations may adjust details based on logistics, weather, or cultural considerations.