Most of the residents of the city chew the narcotic leaves known as "Chat" aka qat, khat, catha edulis. In the afternoon, in many places, Dire Dawans sit in circle and consume chat, with several cups of coffee. During this time there could be a heated discussion. Avoid political topics, especially with the Ethiopian Somalis or Somali refugees. Other than that, you could have an interesting experience with the lightly narcotic drug. CAUTION:- "Chat" is illegal in the US and EU. Do not try to take it to Europe or the USA.
Twice yearly there is a religious ceremony at the nearby city of Kulubi 30 birr by minibus, 1 hour. It is a mass gathering with many small stalls selling clothes, sugar cane etc. Hotel prices in Dire Dawa double or triple for the three day period.
