Addis Ababa Police Announce Road Closures Ahead of Meskel-Demera Festival
Addis Ababa, September 25, 2025 (FMC) – Addis Ababa Police have announced temporary road closures across the capital to prevent traffic congestion during the Meskel-Demera festival, which will be celebrated at Meskel Square starting tomorrow afternoon.
The Meskel-Demera festival is a major religious and cultural celebration observed by Ethiopian Orthodox and Catholic Christians, commemorating the discovery of the True Cross by Queen Helena. Central to the festival are public gatherings, colorful processions, and the lighting of bonfires known as “Demera.” Celebrations take place on both the eve of Meskel and the main holiday, and the events and customs can vary from region to region across Ethiopia, reflecting local traditions and community practices.
In that regard, the eve of the Meskel holiday, also known as Demera, is set to be observed on Friday 26th September, followed by the official Meskel holiday on Saturday, 27th September.
Accordingly, police announced that the following roads will be closed to vehicles:
- St. Urael Roundabout to Meskel Square: Closed at St. Urael Roundabout.
- Bole to Meskel Square: Blocked at Olympia Roundabout in all directions.
- Meskel Flower to Olympia: Closed at Gazebo Roundabout.
- Agona Cinema to Meskel Square: Heavy vehicles blocked near Agona Cinema; light vehicles blocked at Tilahun Roundabout.
- Legehar Traffic Light to Meskel Square: Closed at Legehar Traffic Light.
- Tele Crossing to Addis Ababa Stadium: Closed at Tele Crossing.
- Ras Hotel to Addis Ababa Stadium: Closed near Ras Hotel.
- Harambe Traffic Light/Ambassador Cinema to Meskel Square: Blocked at Harambe Traffic Light.
- National Palace to Meskel Square: Blocked near the National Palace.
- Kazanchis Shell to Bambis: Closed near Kazanchis Shell.
- Jupiter Hotel to ECA Headquarters: Closed near Bambis Sialkot Building.
The closures will begin at 10:00 AM on September 26, 2025, and remain in effect until the conclusion of the event. Parking along these routes is strictly prohibited. Police are also urging drivers to use alternative routes and cooperate with security personnel to ensure smooth traffic flow.
The public has also been encouraged to assist security forces in maintaining safety during the colorful celebrations.
Religious leaders, government officials, security personnel, and community representatives nationwide have confirmed that full preparations are in place for the annual Meskel-Demera festival.