Ethiopians are celebrating the first day of the Ethiopian New Year 2015, known colloquially as Enkutatash.
Ethiopians, unlike many other parts of the world, do not celebrate the New Year on January 1.
During a leap year, the Ethiopian New Year falls on September 11 or 12.
The Ethiopian calendar is a solar calendar that was brought to them by missionaries and is based on the Egyptian and Julian calendars.
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With 13 months, the country has its own unique calendar in the world. Each month contains 30 days. Pagumen, the 13th month, has 5 days or 6 days during each leap year.
Ethiopian families spend the first day of the Ethiopian New Year together, participating in traditional events.
Ethiopians celebrate the first day of the essentially indoor Ethiopian New Year by mostly wearing traditional attire, slaughtering animals, preparing traditional drinks and foods, accompanied by songs and dances, and a variety of other activities that regard as a special moment of renewal.
Ethiopian President Sahle Work Zewde and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, among others, sent their best wishes to Ethiopians celebrating the New Year both at home and abroad.
The recently concluded year of 2014 was difficult, with the country experiencing the emergence of new conflicts, economic strains, drought, and diplomatic issues.
However, the country is optimistic that the new year will bring harmony and peaceful coexistence.
