Minnesota, USA — The Oromo community in Minnesota gathered at Lake Nokomis on 19 September 2026 to celebrate Irreecha, the sacred Oromo Thanksgiving festival, in a vibrant and deeply meaningful observance that brought together families and friends from across the state.

The celebration, organised by Hawaasa Oromoo Minnesota, was marked by prayers, cultural performances, traditional attire, and a shared spirit of gratitude that reflected the enduring strength of Oromo heritage in the diaspora.

Irreecha: A Festival That Unites the World

During the celebration, speakers described Irreecha as a great Oromo festival that brings the global Oromo community together and showcases the beauty and richness of Oromo culture to the world.

It was emphasised that Irreecha has reached its current level of recognition through immense effort and dedication over many years. Community members were reminded that the journey to elevate the festival has not been easy, and that the sacrifices made along the way must always be honoured.

The gathering also paused to remember the tragic events of 2016 at Arsadi, where lives were lost during Irreecha celebrations. Those who gathered were reminded that the sacrifices made that day will never be forgotten — a solemn moment that underscored the resilience and determination of the Oromo people.

A Celebration Rooted in Gratitude

Thanksgiving is one of the most beautiful and meaningful parts of Oromo culture. Irreecha is a time when the Oromo people come together to give thanks to Waaqa for life, peace, rain, harvest, family, and the blessings of the past season.

More than just a celebration, Irreecha is an expression of gratitude, unity, reconciliation, hope, and renewal. People gather in nature, often near rivers and lakes, carrying fresh green branches and flowers as symbols of life, abundance, and renewal.

Through prayers, songs, traditional clothing, and cultural expressions, communities celebrate together and give thanks for the blessings of creation.

Strengthening Relationships and Building Unity

Irreecha is also a time to strengthen relationships, forgive one another, resolve differences, and look toward the future with hope. The celebration reflects the deep Oromo understanding that human beings are connected to one another, to the land, and to the natural world.

In Minnesota, this spirit of unity was on full display as community members came together in traditional attire, sharing prayers, songs, and fellowship. Elders, youth, and children alike participated in the festivities, ensuring that the traditions of their ancestors continue to thrive in the diaspora.

A Message of Peace and Hope

As the celebration drew to a close, heartfelt wishes were extended to Oromo communities around the world:

“May this Irreecha bring peace to our hearts, unity to our communities, prosperity to our families, and hope for the generations to come.”

The gathering concluded with the traditional blessings that echo across Oromo celebrations everywhere:

“Happy Irreecha! 🌿 🙏🏾 🌳”
“Horaa bulaa, deebanaa! ❤️💚❤️”

Irreecha: A Tradition That Transcends Borders

Irreecha remains a powerful symbol of Oromo identity, connecting millions of people across Ethiopia and the global diaspora. From the shores of Lake Hora Arsadi in Bishoftu to community halls and parks in Minnesota, London, Melbourne, and beyond, the festival continues to unite Oromo people in gratitude, hope, and shared heritage.

As the Oromo community in Minnesota demonstrated, Irreecha is not merely a tradition of the past — it is a living, breathing celebration of faith, resilience, and the enduring bonds of community.

Irreecha nagaan! 🌿