How Christmas is celebrated
Worshippers often wear a white netela shawl for liturgy. After fasting, many families share a festive meal. Genna is also the name of a traditional stick-and-ball game sometimes compared with hockey, though it is not played by every family today.
What is on the festive table?
Doro wat, a richly spiced chicken stew, may feature in celebratory meals alongside injera. Food preparation and sharing mark a transition from fasting to festivity.
Where to experience the season
The rock-hewn churches of Lalibela are extraordinary places to understand Ethiopian Christian heritage. Any visit around a major feast requires respect for pilgrims and close attention to current access and security conditions.
Planning a Christmas visit
The 7 January date applies to the Ethiopian Orthodox calendar; other Christian communities may differ. Consult official travel advice and local church guidance before considering travel.
Genna the holiday and Genna the game are related by name, but a visitor should not expect to find an organized game at every celebration.
How to wish Merry Christmas locally
Share the spirit of the season with greeting artwork from the supplied multilingual Christmas collection:
Before you make travel plans
Public markets, parades, worship services and exhibitions change their dates, entry policies and scale from one season to the next. Check the current official event calendar, applicable travel advisories and local cultural guidance before booking. This guide describes traditions, not a promise that a particular event will run every year.