Meskel is one of the most important ecclesiastical holidays in the Ethiopian Orthodox calendar. It is also known as The Finding of the True Cross. In the 4th century Roman Empress Saint Helena (and mother of Constantine the Great) had a dream to light a bonfire; this is celebrated on Meskel eve known as Demera when bonfires are lit at dusk colorfully adorned with seasonal
yellow “Meskel” flowers around which there is dancing and singing.
In all parts of the county however, Meskel Day itself is observed with great celebration and festivity with friends and family and using ashes from the Demera fire, many Orthodox Christians will use the ash to mark their foreheads with the sign of the cross
After having breakfast at your hotel, you will have an Addis Ababa city tour. This tour will give you a glimpse of Ethiopia. In addition to learning so much about the history and culture of the country, your tour has entitled you to a chance to experience so many activities in Addis Ababa, and moreover to see amazing places and to interact with the local people. Unity Park, which is in the grand palace, National Museum for
historical relics and archeological findings, Ethnographic Museum has a varied array of artifacts, icon & cross and & Holy trinity Cathedral Church.
After a relaxing lunch you will attend Meskel (the finding of the true cross) festival. Meskel is one of the most important ecclesiastical holidays in the Ethiopian Orthodox calendar. It commemorates the discovery of the True cross on which Jesus was crucified. The largest bonfire ceremony takes place in Addis Ababa’s Meskel Square, where hundreds of thousands of people gather to watch the colorfully dressed priests chant, pray and dance.
Meal Plan: Lunch & Dinner
Lunch at Union cocktail bar, Dinner at Cultural restaurant
After breakfast transfer to the airport and departure. End of the tour.
Meal Plan: Breakfast
Ethiopian Holidays representative upon arrival will meet and assist.
Email: ETHolidays@ethiopianairlines.com
Contact Number: + 251 115174204/4207/4205/4504
Date of cancellation Penalty
More than 30 days before arrival No fees
Between 29 and 21 days before the date of arrival 25% of the total value
Between 20 and 08 days before the date of arrival 50% of the total value
Less than 07 days before the date of arrival 100% of the total value
Tour Name | Meskel Festival Morning Arrival |
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Sales Validity Start | 29 April 2025 |
Sales Validity End | 30 September 2025 |
Duration | 2 day(s) |
Price Group | Price Per Person |
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1 | USD 387 |
2 | USD 278 |
3 | USD 272 |
4 | USD 255 |
5 | USD 245 |
6 | USD 220 |
7 to 10
|
USD 210 |