Each August in Mek'ele, the Ashenda Festival bursts into life—an exuberant celebration dedicated to girls and young women, marking the end of the two-week fast of Filseta. This festival is much more than traditional rites; it's an immersive journey through the heart of Tigray's culture and community.

The main events unfold over several days, where streets pulse with energy, sounds of intricate melodies, and the rhythmic clatter of traditional instruments. Groups of girls, adorned in crisp white cotton dresses embroidered with colorful patterns, parade through Mek'ele’s uneven cobblestone lanes. Their vibrant chants and dances invite you to experience a communal vitality that is both intensely joyful and deeply respectful of heritage.

From a practical standpoint, Ashenda offers an opportunity to explore Mek'ele itself, a city perched at about 2,084 meters (6,837 feet), surrounded by rugged Eritrean Highlands which frame the cultural backdrop. Plan your visit to coincide with late August, when the city fills with visitors and the festival reaches its peak.

Navigating Mek'ele during Ashenda requires some preparation. The city becomes lively, sometimes overwhelming, and local accommodations fill fast. Book your lodging in advance and prepare for crowds in market areas. Comfortable, sturdy walking shoes are essential; the festival’s vibe encourages plenty of strolling on irregular terrain. Bring hydration options; Ethiopia’s dry season can be dehydrating, especially amid the throng.

The Ashenda Festival isn't a passive spectacle—it demands respect and participation. Expect traditional dances like the "Suksuk", vibrant group singing, and ceremonial gifts like barley bread and beer shared with visitors. The natural landscape around Mek'ele, with the towering Yemrehanna Kristos rock-hewn church nearby and the green-shaded banks of the Giba River, provides excellent side-trip relief from urban bustle.

For those intent on combining cultural exploration with light trekking, a circuit hike around Mek'ele offers stunning views of the festival city from ridges, punctuated by fig and acacia trees that seem to watch over the celebrations like sentinels. The air here carries the dry-season scent of dust and frankincense, nature joining the chorus of celebration.

Timing your visit for early morning and late afternoon activities will keep you ahead of peak crowds and capture the best light for photography. The city is fiercely itself during Ashenda—anchored in tradition yet pulsing with youthful energy. Approaching with an open mind and grounded logistics will ensure you not only witness but truly engage in one of Ethiopia’s most vivid festivals.