On March 26, 2026, the Ethiopian city of Harar, located 400 kilometers from Addis Ababa, hosted the Shuwalid festival. Listed at the end of 2023 as UNESCO’s intangible cultural heritage, it marks the end of an additional six days of fasting after Ramadan. Throughout the night, tens of thousands of people celebrate with dances and songs, this “second Eid”.
“With our correspondent in Addis Ababa,” the procession slowly starts from Amir Uga Street, led by two horse riders. A couple, draped in red and gold coats, follows behind, surrounded by guards, recreating a traditional Harari wedding. Ahmed, who grew up in Harar, portrays the groom. “I have been participating in the celebrations for two years, and for me, it is important because it represents our traditions. So I do it with pleasure,” he explains.
Every year, the Shuwalid festival gathers tens of thousands of people in Ethiopia. For two days, the city is bustling. Sami Abdulwasim, director of the tourism and heritage office of Harar, highlights the event’s impact: “This festival attracts visitors from around the world, as well as people from all over the country. When people come, they take the time to visit the city, stay for a day or two, so the economic benefits are very important.”
While Shuwalid mainly celebrates Harari culture, all surrounding communities – Afar, Oromo, Somali – are represented. Groups of boys and girls from each region parade, playing their own music. Ramadan, coming from Dire Dawa, a two-hour drive away, is attending for the first time. “It’s really interesting to see the traditional Harari culture. I am here for that. But there are also songs in several languages, clothing from all regions. I am really surprised and happy to see all of this,” he shares.
It is also a first for Ali, a student from the town of Jijiga in the Somali region. “I came here because it’s a different culture from the Somali region. I want to see the Harari celebrations and listen to their music,” he says.
Since being recognized by UNESCO in 2023, Shuwalid has been a global celebration, attracting tourists and the Ethiopian diaspora, like Legesse, who lives in Switzerland. “What I love is seeing all the cultures united, it’s really cool. For me, it’s a unique experience in Africa, and it’s awesome,” he enthuses.
Around 7 p.m., after a final iftar, the meal that breaks the fast, the celebration continues throughout the city until late at night. Because the goal of Shuwalid is also for the Harari youth to find a partner.
Context:
The Shuwalid festival in Harar, Ethiopia, celebrates Harari culture and tradition, attracting visitors from around the world and offering economic benefits to the city.
Fact Check:
The content appears to accurately report on the Shuwalid festival and its cultural significance in Harar, Ethiopia.
