September Marks the Start of Ethiopia’s New Year

Unlike most of the world, Ethiopia marks the New Year in September. The holiday is called Enkutatash, which means gift of jewels in Amharic, and falls on September 11 or September 12 in a leap year.

Ethiopia follows its own calendar, about seven to eight years behind the Gregorian calendar. It has 13 months. Twelve months have 30 days and one short month, Pagume, has 5 or 6 days.

Enkutatash dates back to the time of the Queen of Sheba. When she returned to Ethiopia after visiting King Solomon in Jerusalem, her chiefs welcomed her with gifts of jewels. The celebration grew into a tradition of renewal and thanksgiving.

The holiday is marked with church prayers, songs, bonfires, and family feasts. Young girls wear traditional white cotton dresses with colorful embroidery. They go from house to house singing songs and giving flowers for small gifts. Families enjoy foods such as doro wat, injera, and freshly brewed Ethiopian coffee.

Enkutatash also celebrates nature. It comes after the rainy season when the land is green and blooming. The holiday symbolizes hope, family, faith, and new beginnings.