Meskel Square, situated in the heart of the city, serves as a prominent public square often utilized for public gatherings, demonstrations, and festivals, particularly the Meskel Festival from which it derives its name. The Meskel Square Project, finalized in June 2021, encompasses 1,400 underground parking spaces, 6 LED signboards, and 24 retail facilities. As a component of the City Beautification initiative, the renovation project for Meskel Square incurred a cost of 2.6 billion Birr. This extensive renovation effort has significantly enhanced the aesthetics of Meskel Square, a pivotal public gathering space in the capital city of Addis Ababa for several decades.
Additionally, the renovation has expanded Meskel Square's capacity to host over half a million people during religious and public outdoor holidays, such as the Meskel-Demera Religious Festival. This event has already earned recognition from UNESCO as world intangible heritage. In addition to revitalizing the gathering space, the project has renovated the 3.5km Churchill Avenue, extending from Addis Ababa City Hall to Meskel Square. This transformation includes the incorporation of spacious sidewalks and green areas.