Millions of worshippers across Ethiopia have taken part in vibrant public celebrations to mark one of the most significant events in the religious calendar.
A Nationwide Celebration of Faith
On Monday 19 January 2026, the country's vast Ethiopian Orthodox Christian community came together to observe Timket, the local name for the Epiphany feast. This major festival commemorates the baptism of Jesus Christ by John the Baptist in the River Jordan, an event of profound theological importance.
The scale of the observance is immense, with faithful participants gathering in towns and cities nationwide. The day is characterised by colourful processions, spirited hymns, and elaborate ceremonies centred around replicas of the Ark of the Covenant, known as Tabots.
Rituals and Symbolism of the Festival
The core rituals of the Timket festival involve a ceremonial re-enactment of the baptism. Priests, dressed in splendid robes, bless bodies of water which worshippers then use to renew their own baptismal vows. This act of sprinkling or submerging oneself in the sanctified water is a powerful symbol of spiritual cleansing and renewal for the year ahead.
The celebrations typically span two days, beginning on the Eve of Timket with a grand procession escorting the Tabots to a nearby body of water, accompanied by chanting, drumming, and the waving of prayer sticks. The main Epiphany celebration occurs on the following day, which was Monday this year.
A Cultural and Spiritual Keystone
Beyond its deep religious significance, Timket serves as a vital expression of Ethiopian cultural heritage and community cohesion. It is a public holiday, allowing for full participation across society. The event draws international attention, with photojournalists from agencies like the Associated Press documenting the vivid scenes of devotion and pageantry.
The visual record of the 2026 festivities, curated by AP photo editors, showcases a nation immersed in ancient tradition. From the white-clad congregants to the richly adorned clergy, the images tell a story of unwavering faith passed down through generations. For the Ethiopian Orthodox Christians, Timket remains an indispensable pillar of their identity, blending biblical commemoration with a vibrant, living culture.
