Every year, Denver Sister Cities Axum Committee has the immense honor of celebrating Ashenda at City of Axum Park. This year, it was a day that was truly filled with joy, vibrant cultural expressions, and a deep sense of community. Hosted by Tigray Community of Colorado, Ashenda brings together the local community to celebrate women and girls and people of all backgrounds to share in the rich traditions and spirit of the Tigray people.
What is Ashenda?
Ashenda, a festival deeply rooted in the cultural heritage of the Tigray region in Ethiopia, is a joyous celebration that honors young girls and women. Traditionally, the festival marks the end of a two-week fasting period known as Filseta, a time dedicated to honoring the Virgin Mary. However, over time, Ashenda has evolved beyond its religious origins to become a broader cultural event, celebrating freedom, expression, and the joy of community.
During Ashenda, girls dress in beautifully embroidered traditional dresses, braid their hair in intricate styles, and wear skirts made from tall, green grass that symbolize the upcoming harvest season. They go from house to house, singing and dancing, bringing joy to their communities and receiving gifts in return. This tradition fosters a sense of unity, celebration, and recognition of the importance of young women in society.
A Day Filled with Joy and Friendship
Ashenda Festival in 2024 was no exception to the tradition's spirit of joy and friendship. The day began with the vibrant sounds of traditional Tigray music filling the air, setting the tone for a day of celebration. It was heartwarming to see young girls and women dressed in their beautiful Ashenda attire, their smiles and laughter lighting up the park.
The event featured various activities, including a basketball tournament, traditional food stalls, and cultural performances. The highlight was the parade of Ashenda girls, who danced and sang their way through the park, spreading joy and embodying the spirit of the festival. Their energy was infectious, drawing in onlookers and inviting everyone to join in the celebration. The night capped off with a gala supporting Tigray Community Colorado.
Community and Collaboration
We are incredibly grateful to the Tigray Community of Colorado for their tireless efforts in organizing this fantastic event. Special thanks go to Millete Birhanemaskel, Executive Director of Tigray Community Colorado, for her leadership and dedication, and to Councilmember Shontel Lewis for her unwavering support with the recent proclamation honoring Ashenda and the Denver-Axum Sister City relationship. Their commitment to celebrating and preserving Tigray culture is truly inspiring.
A heartfelt thank you to Janet Lee and Senaye Gebremichael, co-chairs of the Denver Sister Cities Axum Committee, for their hard work and dedication. Their efforts in coordinating the event and providing food for the kids. We also extend our gratitude to Bradly Wentker, running the Denver Sister Cities booth, and to all the volunteers who served up delicious burgers and hot dogs, creating a welcoming and friendly atmosphere for everyone.
A special mention goes to Vincent Owens and Jack Price, whose artistic talents brought a colorful basketball mural to life in the park. Adding a vibrant touch to the park, symbolizing the unity and friendship between Denver and Axum.
Looking Forward
Ashenda was a day of celebration and cultural heritage, a commitment to friendship, and a collective effort to make a positive impact. The joy and warmth that filled City of Axum Park were palpable, reminding us of the importance of coming together to celebrate our shared humanity.
As we look forward to Ashenda 2025, we are excited to continue building on this tradition, strengthening the ties between Denver and Axum, and celebrating the cultural heritage of Tigray. We hope to see even more members of our community join us next year in this beautiful celebration of joy, culture, and friendship.
Ashenda 2024 Short Recap Video by Denver Sister Cities
