Irreechaa is a very special festival celebrated by the Oromo people. It is a time to say thank you to Waaqa (God) for all the good things in life — like rain, food, family, and friends.

Irreechaa happens when the rainy season ends and spring begins. Families dress in beautiful, colourful clothes and go to rivers or lakes. Everyone carries fresh green grass and yellow flowers. They dip the grass into the water and sprinkle a little water on themselves. This means saying goodbye to bad things and welcoming good things.

People sing songs, dance, and share food together. Elders give blessings and everyone prays for peace. It is also a time to say sorry and make friends again if someone was upset.

Irreechaa is celebrated in Ethiopia and all around the world, even in Australia! It teaches us to be grateful, to be kind, and to stay together.

It is a happy day full of colour, songs, and love. That is why Irreechaa is such a wonderful festival!

Baga Irreechaa nagaan geessan!