Thousands in Ethiopia’s capital city defied a downpour to celebrate Meskel, the first big festival of the religious year.

It marks the discovery of the cross Jesus was crucified on, according to Ethiopian Orthodox Christian tradition.

On Thursday, believers gathered in a large public plaza in Addis Ababa for rituals, speeches and even a spot of theatre.

But the highlight was the lighting of a bonfire in the centre of the square.

There was heavy security presence at this year’s celebration – personnel numbers have been beefed up at many major events in Ethiopia amid sporadic fighting in regions such as Amhara and Oromia.

Traditional instruments play a significant role in Meskel proceedings.

Heavy rain fell at one point during the evening, prompting musicians playing the 10-stringed begena to cover their instruments.

Vocalists also put on a show.

This all-female choir adorned themselves with mock versions of adey abeba, an indigenous flower that symbolises the Ethiopian New Year, which was marked earlier this month.

As is customary, a huge pyre was lit at the centre of the square. The bonfire signifies the efforts made by St Helena, the mother of the Emperor Constantine, to find Jesus’ cross while in Jerusalem in the 4th Century.

Sunday school students portrayed this scene for Thursday’s crowds, with one young woman donning a huge crown and red cape:

During the celebration Abune Mathias, the patriarch of Ethiopia’s Orthodox Church, called on Ethiopians to unite and play a part in bringing peace to the country.

One wreath-wearing attendee had a similar message.

Correction 30 September: The reference to the person who went to Jerusalem to find the cross has been updated to make it clear it was 4th Century St Helena, and not medieval Ethiopian Empress Eleni.