Meskel Square Plaza

Address: Meskel Square, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Hours: Public square (open)

Meskel Square is a major public square in central Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, known as a primary civic and ceremonial gathering place for the city. It is strongly associated with the annual Meskel religious festival.

The square hosts large public events, religious ceremonies and national celebrations and can accommodate thousands of attendees during peak events. On festival days the square becomes the site of the Meskel bonfire ceremony and large processions.

Named for the Meskel festival of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church, the square has long served as a central open space for civic life in Addis Ababa and has been the site of political rallies and state ceremonies in the 20th and 21st centuries.

Located in downtown Addis Ababa, the square sits at the intersection of major boulevards and is surrounded by commercial and governmental buildings, making it easily accessible from other central city districts.

• Meskel festival date: The square is the focal point for the Ethiopian Orthodox Meskel festival held annually on September 27 (or the following day in leap years), when a large bonfire ceremony called the Demera draws thousands.
• Event impact: Regularly used for political rallies, public celebrations and large-scale gatherings, so expect road closures and heavy traffic during major events.

Meskel Square sits in central Addis Ababa and is reachable by local taxis, minibuses (blue and white minibuses) and on foot from many central hotels.

• Visit early morning to see the square before it becomes fully occupied by traffic and activity.
• Be mindful of ongoing civic functions - Meskel Square is often used for public ceremonies and events that can close parts of the area.
• Walk to nearby Meskel Square landmarks (e.g., the National Theatre) when crowds are lighter.