Wesak

Wesak, also known as Vesak or Vesakha Puja, is a major Buddhist festival that commemorates the life of Gautama Buddha. It traditionally marks the three pivotal events in the Buddha's life—his birth, his enlightenment (awakening), and his parinirvana (death). The festival is observed on the full moon day of the lunar month Vesakha, which typically falls in April or May in the Gregorian calendar. While the specific date varies by country and calendar, Vesak remains a unifying celebration for Buddhists around the world.

Observances vary by region but share themes of reflection, charity, and peace. Common practices include temple visits, almsgiving, offerings of flowers, incense, and candles, and listening to sermons or teachings. Devotional rituals may include bathing the Buddha statue, meditation, and acts of kindness or generosity. In some countries, large public celebrations feature Vesak pandals—decorative displays that depict Buddhist stories—lanterns and candlelight processions, and charitable initiatives such as food drives or medical screenings. Government holidays and school programs are common in several Buddhist-majority countries.

Regional significance: In Theravada-majority nations such as Sri Lanka, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar, Vesak is among the most important Buddhist holidays. Mahayana communities in parts of China, Vietnam, Taiwan, Korea, and Southeast Asia also observe Vesak with temple ceremonies and cultural events. Across communities, Vesak emphasizes compassion, non-harm, and the pursuit of wisdom.