If You're NearbyFestivalUNESCO

Meskel

Ethiopia's Finding of the True Cross, when crowds in white gather in Addis Ababa's Meskel Square to light a towering bonfire, the Demera.

US travel advisory: Level 3, Reconsider Travel · checked 2026-11-03
Photo: DanielGirmaTsige · CC BY-SA 4.0
When
September 27, with the Demera bonfire the evening before
Where
Addis Ababa
Our full guide to Meskel is being written. It's on the Ethiopia list as If You're Nearby among festivals, events and seasons.

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Addis Ababa

About 1.9 miles away

A high-altitude capital, home of Lucy's bones and great coffee.

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Lalibela

About 209 miles away

Eleven medieval churches, carved down into solid rock.

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Omo Valley

About 152 miles away

Home to many traditional peoples. Visit with care.

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The Full Short List

Ethiopia

Rock churches and an ancient Christian kingdom.

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