It’s time to roll up your sleeves and dive into the mud! The beloved ‘ኑ ጭቃ እናቡካ’ (Nu Chika Enabuka) Festival is back this year  and it’s bigger, muddier, and more joyful than ever. On Sunday, November 1, 2025, Meskel Square will transform into a giant playground filled with laughter, clay, and creativity.

The name “Nu Chika Enabuka” means “Come, let’s make mud and clay”  and that’s exactly what this day is all about. It’s a celebration of imagination, family, and the joy of getting your hands dirty. Children, parents, and even grandparents are all invited to rediscover the simple happiness of playing together, learning from one another, and connecting through art.

What started as a small community gathering has now become one of Addis Ababa’s favorite annual traditions. The festival gives families a much-needed break from screens and routines  replacing them with creativity, laughter, and a good dose of Ethiopian spirit.

Here’s what you can look forward to:

• Hands-On Clay Fun: Thousands of kids (and grown-ups!) will shape, mold, and build with clay together  from tiny sculptures to giant community creations. Who knows, this might even become part of a new world record for the most people sculpting at once!

• Traditional Games: Remember the games your parents or grandparents played as kids? You’ll see them come to life again  spinning tops, rope jumping, and other playful treasures from Ethiopia’s past.

• Family Workshops & Art Corners: Paint, draw, and make things side by side with your kids. Local artists and teachers will guide mini-sessions where creativity has no rules.

• Music, Dance, and Circus Fun: The day will be filled with performances  from lively drum beats to colorful dances and playful circus acts that light up the square.

Every year, the festival becomes a little world of joy  where kids lead the way and adults rediscover what it means to play. Since its launch, over 60,000 families have joined the fun, proving that a bit of clay can build a whole lot of connection.

It’s not just about making things with your hands  it’s about making memories that stick.

So, on November 1, leave the screens at home, grab your kids, and come get your hands muddy at Meskel Square. Bring your imagination, your laughter, and maybe an old shirt  because creativity can be gloriously messy!