Meskel is a significant Ethiopian festival celebrated by Ethiopian Orthodox Christians to mark the finding of the True Cross by Queen Helena. The highlight is the lighting of a large bonfire, called Demera, symbolizing the light of the cross. The festival includes religious services, hymns, and processions, followed by community celebrations with traditional meals such as injera and doro wat. Meskel is a joyful occasion that combines spirituality, cultural expression, and social unity, and is celebrated annually on September 27. It reflects Ethiopia’s deep Christian heritage and vibrant cultural traditions.
