Christmas in Lalibela – Genna Pilgrimage at the Rock-Hewn Churches

Christmas in Lalibela (Genna) is one of the most powerful religious experiences in Ethiopia. Pilgrims from across the country gather at the famous rock-hewn churches for all-night worship, chanting, and candlelit processions that transform the ancient stone courtyards into a sea of white traditional clothing and spiritual energy.

The celebration typically centers around Genna Eve and Genna Day, with intense prayer services, ceremonial movements, and unforgettable atmosphere inside and around the church complex. For visitors, it’s not just an event—it’s a living tradition that shows Lalibela at its most sacred and vibrant.

If you want to witness Ethiopia’s Orthodox heritage at its peak, Genna in Lalibela is the ultimate time to visit—just plan early because the town fills quickly.