World Religions
Opening the Doors of Understanding
Welcome to the World Religion Convention
Buddhist Festivals: Workshop 5B
The Buddhist religious calendar is based on the phases of the moon. Legend says that the Buddha was born and died during the time of a full moon. Therefore, many of the religious festivals take place under a full moon. Some festivals are for Buddhists all around the world. Others are just for Buddhists in areas around a certain town or city.
Buddha on the Lotus Flower
The Festival of Wesak celebrates not only the birth of the Buddha, but in some countries, his death. It usually takes place in the latter weeks of May or within the first two weeks of June beneath the full moon. To prepare for this special day, many Buddhists adorn their statues and may wash them with fragrant water. Many people walk to the temple at midnight to offer sacrifices.
The Festival of the Wesak
For More Information