Meskel is a Christian festival celebrated in Ethiopia and Eritrea that commemorates the discovery of the True Cross by the Roman Empress Helena in the fourth century. The festival is held on the 17th of Meskerem in the Ethiopian calendar, which is September 27th in the Gregorian calendar, or September 28th in leap years. The word "Meskel" means "cross" in Amharic. The festival is considered a hugely important public holiday in Ethiopia and is now on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by the UN Agency for Education, Science and Culture.

The Meskel festival celebration begins with the burning of a large bonfire called Demera, by a large procession of Christians at the Meskel square – named in honor of the festival. This Demera-procession often begins at the eve of the event or sometimes the morning of the celebration. In the capital city of Addis Ababa, a large firewood is decorated with the Meskel flower and then set on fire in line with the history surrounding the festival. Religious and civil leaders preside over the celebration, and public figures give speeches and reference biblical themes and stories. Many Ethiopians who live in cities return to their home villages to celebrate the national event. When darkness falls, the Demera is burned, and the festival is marked by riotous flowering throughout the nation. The highlight of the festival is the lighting of a bonfire decorated with flowers in the central square.

In conclusion, Meskel is a significant Christian festival in Ethiopia and Eritrea that celebrates the discovery of the True Cross by the Roman Empress Helena in the fourth century. The festival is marked by the burning of a large bonfire called Demera, speeches by religious and civil leaders, and public figures, and the lighting of a bonfire decorated with flowers in the central square.