One of Ethiopian’s most treasured festivals, Timket is the Ethiopian Orthodox church celebration of Epiphany, the baptism of Jesus Christ in the River Jordan. This two­ day event (Jan 18­19) begins early morning, where persists donning ceremonial robes, church deacons playing drums,and multitudes of worshippers all hold vigil until dawn. Then the Tabot,a sanctified replica of the Ark of the Covenant, reverently wrapped in rich cloth is borne in procession on the head of the priest. The procession end near a water point and tents are pitched to house the Tabot overnight. The following morning, the Patriarch blesses the pooling ‘Jan Meda’ (place where the festival held), and sprinkle believers en masse with a hose. Many jumps into the pool and immerse. In the afternoon, the crowds escort the Tabot back to the churches. It is a colorful procession and a sight to behold

This is most colorfully celebrated festival in Ethiopia. It falls on the 19th for visitors to witness and enjoy it. The Holy Tabot, the replica of the Arc of the Covenant, is taken out from each Orthodox church around the country the day before the celebration and taken to central areas where the ceremony will take place.