Literally, Enkutatash means 'Gift of Jewels'. The date traditionally marks the end of the season of heavy rains and is more recently or historically set by the return of the Queen of Sheba to Ethiopia after her visit to King Solomon in Jerusalem. It also marks the commemoration of Saint John the Baptist. Enkutatash is not only a religious holiday but it is also a day for young boys and girls to sing and dance and for exchanging New Year greetings among urban and rural inhabitants.
My kids received a small gift at home and their teachers (whom I told of the holiday) had noise makers and treats. We go out to dinner at an Ethiopian restaurant every Friday night, but hope this one will be a bit special for them -- the holiday made them really homesick for Ethiopia. And we will go to Ethiopian church on Sunday, dressed in traditional clothing, to celebrate.
HAPPY ENKUTATASH!
