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Ethiopian Christmas (Genna)

Celebrate Ethiopian Christmas on January 7th according to the ancient Julian calendar, with profound religious devotion, ancient liturgical traditions, and unique cultural practices distinct from Western Christmas celebrations. Known locally as Genna (also called Lidet), this festival commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ with all-night church services, pilgrimages, fasting, and distinctive traditions like the Genna hockey game. The celebrations are particularly magnificent in historical religious centers like Lalibela.

January 7
Lalibela, Axum, Gondar, Addis Ababa, and nationwide Orthodox communities
Winter

About the Festival

Celebrate Ethiopian Christmas on January 7th according to the ancient Julian calendar, with profound religious devotion, ancient liturgical traditions, and unique cultural practices distinct from Western Christmas celebrations. Known locally as Genna (also called Lidet), this festival commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ with all-night church services, pilgrimages, fasting, and distinctive traditions like the Genna hockey game. The celebrations are particularly magnificent in historical religious centers like Lalibela.

Significance

Celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ according to the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church calendar, which follows the ancient Julian calendar. The festival involves 43 days of fasting (Tsome Gahad or Advent) leading to Christmas, emphasizing spiritual preparation. The name Genna also refers to a traditional hockey-like game played on Christmas, symbolizing the shepherds' celebration upon hearing of Christ's birth.

Festival Highlights

All-night church services (likely) beginning around 6 PM on January 6
Mass pilgrimages to Lalibela's rock-hewn churches
Priests in magnificent ceremonial robes carrying replicas of the Ark (tabots)
Traditional Genna hockey game played by men and boys with curved sticks
Fasting broken with festive meals featuring meat dishes after church services
Candlelight processions and white-clad worshippers creating stunning visual spectacles
Ancient liturgical chants (zema) and religious poetry
Family gatherings and sharing of special Christmas bread (defo dabo)
In rural areas, bonfires and traditional dancing after religious observances

Cultural Tips

1

Wear white clothing to church services if possible to blend with worshippers

2

Participate in the fasting if comfortable, or at least respect those who are fasting

3

Watch the traditional Genna hockey game, usually played in open fields

4

Try special Christmas dishes like doro wat (chicken stew) after fasting ends

5

Respect the solemnity and religious significance of all-night services

6

Arrive early at Lalibela churches for good viewing spots as pilgrims arrive

7

Photography during services should be discreet and non-disruptive

8

Be prepared for large crowds, especially at major religious sites

Festival Details

Date
January 7
Season
Winter
Location
Lalibela, Axum, Gondar, Addis Ababa, and nationwide Orthodox communities
Region
Lalibela
Best Time to Visit
January 6-8 for the full Christmas celebration experience

Why Experience This Festival

  • Unique cultural celebration
  • Authentic local experience
  • Incredible photo opportunities
  • Traditional ceremonies & rituals