Ethiopia Welcomes the New Year, Stepping Into 2018
Ethiopians across the country and in the diaspora are celebrating the arrival of a new year as the nation officially enters 2018, according to its unique calendar system.
Unlike the widely used Gregorian calendar, Ethiopia follows its own ancient timekeeping tradition—the Ethiopian calendar—which is roughly seven to eight years behind. This difference means that while much of the world marks 2025, Ethiopians are only just welcoming 2018.
The New Year, known locally as Enkutatash, is celebrated every September 11 (or September 12 in leap years) and coincides with the end of the rainy season and the beginning of spring in Ethiopia. The occasion is marked with family gatherings, church services, cultural events, and the exchange of gifts and greetings.
For many Ethiopians, the new year is a time of renewal, hope, and reflection. Streets and homes are often decorated with flowers, and traditional dishes are shared as communities come together to celebrate.
Ethiopia’s unique calendar is one of many aspects of its rich cultural heritage that distinguishes the nation globally. As citizens ring in 2018, the celebration not only highlights the country’s traditions but also serves as a reminder of Ethiopia’s deep historical and cultural roots.
