While much of the world is preparing to close out 2025, Ethiopia is just stepping into a brand new year — 2018. This week, the East African nation marked its Enkutatash (New Year) with vibrant cultural traditions, joyful gatherings, and a reminder of its unique place in the global calendar.
A Calendar Unlike Any Other
Ethiopia follows its own calendar, which is based on the ancient Coptic system. Unlike the widely used Gregorian calendar, Ethiopia’s calendar has 13 months—12 months of 30 days and a small 13th month called Pagume with five or six days depending on the leap year.
This system makes Ethiopia roughly seven to eight years behind the Western calendar, which is why 2025 elsewhere in the world is only 2018 in Ethiopia.
Enkutatash: The Celebration of Renewal
Enkutatash, which translates to "gift of jewels," is celebrated every September 11th (or 12th in a leap year). The date also coincides with the end of the rainy season, a time when the highlands of Ethiopia are covered with blooming yellow Meskel flowers.
The holiday is marked by:
Church services that reflect Ethiopia’s deep-rooted Orthodox Christian faith.
Family gatherings filled with traditional dishes, coffee ceremonies, and music.
Children singing and dancing, often exchanging flowers and handwritten New Year cards.
A Celebration of Identity
Ethiopia celebrating New year eve
For Ethiopians, the New Year is not just about turning a page on the calendar—it’s about cultural pride, resilience, and a shared sense of renewal. The country’s ability to hold on to its own calendar, language, and heritage makes it stand out on the African continent and across the globe.
Ethiopia’s Message to the World
As Ethiopia celebrates 2018, the rest of the world is reminded of the continent’s rich diversity. Traditions like Enkutatash are not just local events; they are a showcase of Africa’s deep-rooted cultures and timeless identities.
From Addis Ababa to the diaspora communities around the globe, Ethiopians are welcoming the New Year with joy, prayers, and hope for peace and prosperity.
Happy Enkutatash — Melkam Addis Amet (መልካም አዲስ ዓመት)!