Harar, considered as the fourth holiest city of Islam and the spiritual heart of Ethiopia’s Islamic community, has a unique celebration of Eid Al Fitr.
After the end of Ramadan, Muslims in Harari fast for additional six days and on the 8th day; they celebrate Shuwal Eid festival in the street with large gatherings.
According to the information obtained from Tourism Ethiopia, the festival entwines both religious and cultural aspects and holds special place in Harari people. Thus, it is celebrated with mass gatherings and unique rituals on the main squares of the city.
Shewal Eid festival has special notion for the youths as it allows them to find their life partners. Due to this, the annual feast is one of the eagerly awaited days by Harari people, especially by youths, the source indicated.
Dini Remedan, State’s Culture and Tourism Bureau Head said that Shewal Eid is an event which reflects the culture, identity and beauty of Harari people. The day is though celebrated by all irrespective of any differences; it has special meaning for the unmarried youths. Girls are also allowed to move from place to place and celebrate the festival freely without any restriction.
He underscored that recently the festival has become popular among the people residing within the State and national level. As a result, the number of people participating in the festival is increasing from year to year. He stated that starting from the last year; the Bureau has been undertaking a lot of activities to inscribe the festival in the list of UNESCO world intangible religious and cultural heritage.
To this effect in the coming year, all the necessary documents will be submitted to the concerned bodies. Scholars have to provide their professional support to this end, he added. As to him though the celebration of the festival needs large gathering, this year’s festival was celebrated at the presence of few people due to COVID-19 pandemic. Hence, while the people celebrated the festival at home last Sunday, religious fathers, community leaders and government officials marked at the Chalenko Hall.
