Hundreds of Ethiopians across the UK have converged in Birmingham this weekend to celebrate Timkat, the Ethiopian Epiphany.
Observed annually on January 19th, the vibrant festival commemorates the baptism of Jesus Christ in River Jordan. It is a significant religious and cultural event.
The festivities, which began the evening before at the New Bingley Hall, included traditional night long prayers and hymn services, reflecting a centuries-old tradition dating back to the 4th century. Recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage, Timkat holds deep spiritual and cultural meaning for the Ethiopian community. The BBC reported on the large turnout and the joyous celebration.