On September 11th, our CBE grad assistant, Bemnette Kassa, brought everyone in the office flowers and dessert in honor of the Ethiopian New Year. Unfamiliar with the Ethiopian New Year, I wanted to know more and this is what I learned…..
The Ethiopian New Year, or “Addis Amet,” holds deep cultural and religious significance, marking the start of a new season. Each year corresponds to one of the four disciples of the New Testament, with this year being the season of Matteos (Matthew). The Ethiopian calendar begins in September, believed to be the month God created the earth.
Ethiopian Orthodox Christians celebrate the New Year with religious connections, such as honoring the birthday of John the Baptist. A ceremony called “tabot” includes a church parade and songs of praise, coinciding with the blooming of the yellow “Addey Abeba” flower, which is central to the celebrations. According to legend, King Solomon once gave the Queen of Sheba this flower in the form of a ring.
Celebrations involve family and friends, with coffee ceremonies, feasts, and traditional foods like dabo, qolo, and popcorn. Children don new clothes, distribute artwork, and participate in singing and dancing. The song “Abebayehwosh,” meaning “Have you seen the flower?” is a key part of the festivities.
Ethiopia follows a 13-month calendar, starting in 7 BC, which differs from the Gregorian calendar. Even Ethiopian communities abroad celebrate Addis Amet, maintaining traditions and fostering togetherness, love, and community.
For me, the highlight of Addis Amet is singing “Abebayehwosh” with the women of my community. One of my fondest memories is when, during a New Year celebration at church, the children were invited to sing. As we sang, the elder women—our mothers, aunts, grandmothers, and sisters—joined in, creating a beautiful, unbreakable bond.
In preparation for the New Year, my family often searches for yellow flowers reminiscent of the Addey Abeba, dresses in our best yellow or gold attire, and cooks up a large feast. Addis Amet is a time for family, tradition, and joy, bringing together loved ones to welcome the year ahead with peace, prosperity, and love.
By Lisa Simmons, Assistant Dean, CBE
This story is a part of the college’s CBE Celebrates Diversity Series, which highlights student, faculty and staff stories from our diverse community.