Early Saturday morning, Abba Gadas officially launched the Orrecha Hora Finfinne in Addis Ababa.
Tens of Thousands flooded the festival grounds since Friday afternoon to take part in the events.
Attendees wearing traditional clothing and weaving flowers sang traditional songs and offered blessings to mark the annual Irrecha festival.
While especially significant for the Oromo population, Irrecha has become an opportunity for unity and celebration among Ethiopians over the years.
The colorful festivities and cultural events will continue Sunday as grand event in Bishoftu, a town near Addis Ababa, at Hora Arsedi as part of the annual Irrecha celebrations.