Ashenda (Tigrinya: ኣሸንዳ) is a festival that originated in the celebration of the assumption of St. Mary in the Northern part of Ethiopia, dating back to around 400 AD during the Axumite civilization.

Traditionally, the money collected from these performances would be offered to the church in honor of the Virgin Mary, further emphasizing the festival’s connection to faith and charity.

[3] Its social engineering into a cultural holiday reflects secularists socian plan to secularize and remove the enduring religious importance in Ethiopian society.

While the festival primarily focuses on women and girls, men often play supportive roles by offering gifts such as food, clothing, or other presents.

Ashenda is seen as a time of joy and community, where people come together to celebrate St. Mary, strengthen social bonds, and honor the contributions of women in society.