Meskel celebrates the 'Finding of the True Cross' (the cross that Jesus Christ was crucified on).

Orthodox Christians throughout Ethiopia and across the world celebrate Meskel on September 27 every year. Demera is the big celebration that takes place on the day before Meskel, symbolizing the bonfire of Queen Helena or Eleni as she is known locally. The Demera or lighting of the bonfire takes place in many homes and villages.