Celebrate January 7: Genna or Lidet Ethiopian & Eritrean Christmas
On January 7th, the world is invited to experience the radiant joy of Genna, also known as Lidet, the Ethiopian and Eritrean Christmas, a celebration rooted in the ancient traditions of the glorious Tewahedo faith.
While much of the world celebrates on December 25th, Ethiopia and Eritrea follow the Julian calendar, marking this sacred day later — on January 7th. Why? Because the Nativity is not about following trends but connecting deeply to tradition.
The Julian calendar is 7-8 years behind the Gregorian calendar. December 25th aligns with the winter solstice, a time once celebrated for the ‘rising of the sun.’ But the Ethiopian Tewahedo faith honors the birth of the Son with a profound spiritual journey, fasting, prayer, and community unity.
Imagine children filling the streets, their voices ringing with songs of joy, spreading gifts and flowers to neighbors. This is Genna, or Lidet, a time of giving, love, and unity.
And let’s not forget the exhilarating game of Ganna — a fast-paced sport played with curved sticks and a wooden ball, symbolizing community and celebration.
Here, we feature our esteemed Emperor Haile Selassie I, playing a game of Genna.
For 43 days, Ethiopian Orthodox Christians fast in anticipation. When Genna arrives, they gather for all-night liturgical church services, singing hymns known as mezmurs. Melodic chanting and prayers can be heard in the cathedrals.
After worship, the fast is broken and celebrations begin feasting on before feasting on delicious traditional dishes like injera and wat and toasting with Tej, the sweet honey wine. Tej is said to have been a favorite of King Solomon and the Queen of Sheba.
In Lalibela, the birthplace of King Lalibela, the Genna celebrations are especially majestic, blending history, faith, and vibrant processions in honor of the Nativity.
Did you know some believe Christ may have been born in April or even September? No matter when you celebrate, RasTafari TV Network sends you a heart of perfect love for a joyous and prosperous holiday season—whether it’s Kwanzaa, Hanukkah, Christmas, or Lidet.
Join us in embracing the spirit of Lidet, a celebration of faith, love, and community. This January 7th, remember — you have a choice to celebrate something truly unique. Tune into RasTafari TV Network for more on the beauty of our ancient Tewahedo traditions!
As we capture the essence of Ethiopian and Eritrean Christmas, we invite viewers worldwide to apprecilove its cultural depth and choose to celebrate a unique and spiritual alternative.
Rastafari TV Network, bringing our ancient traditions to the world!
