Pilgrimage · Festivals & Events
Hidar Tsion
Celebrated on 30 November (Hidar 21 in the Ethiopian calendar), Hidar Tsion is the great annual festival of the Church of Our Lady Mary of Zion in Axum.
- Best Time
- 30 November
- Suggested Stay
- 2 days
- Altitude
- 2,131 m (Axum)
- Region
- Festivals & Events
Why We Go
Thousands of pilgrims gather in Axum to honour Mary of Zion each November.
The Church of Our Lady Mary of Zion is one of the most sacred places in Ethiopian Christianity. According to tradition, the adjoining Chapel of the Tablet houses the Ark of the Covenant.
Each November, pilgrims fill the city for prayers, chanting and colourful processions. Combine the festival with Axum’s ancient monuments for a deeply memorable visit.
Highlights
- Processions around the Church of St Mary of Zion
- The Chapel of the Tablet, said to house the Ark
- Pilgrims from across Ethiopia in white shawls
- Axum’s stelae and archaeological sites
Plan This Destination
Build Hidar Tsion into your journey
Nothing here is fixed. Tell us how long you have and what else you want to see, and our team will plan the route, including the flights, the guides and the hours that matter.
Let’s Plan Your Ethiopian Adventure
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Discover Ethiopia. Experience the Extraordinary!
Speak to someone who has been there this season
Our guides travel these routes all year. Ask about road conditions, festival dates or the best time to visit. You will get a straight answer.
Or call us directly on +251 912 039405