Every religion has their holy days, sometimes also called holidays, that are celebrated on a regular basis. These days are meant to celebrate what a particular religion means, the days that changed the course of the faith, and important events that solidified the tenants of the religion for future followers.
Here are a few of the major holidays in Buddhism, and what they mean to those who celebrate them.
Buddhist New Year. The Buddhist New Year is an important festival time, but it varies from one country to another. For instance, in Thailand the Buddhist New Year begins on the first full moon day in April and lasts for three days. However, in China, the Buddhist New Year often falls in early January or February.
Vesak or Vesakah Puja. On the first full moon day in May (in June during leap years), the birth and enlightenment of Buddha is celebrated. This is the biggest festival of the year, and takes place on the one day of Buddha’s birth celebration.
Loy Krathong. Also known as the festival of the floating bowls, this particular ritual can light up a countryside into a beautiful work of art. On the full moon night of the 12th Lunar Moon, people bring bowls of leaves to bodies of water. The bowls are filled with flowers, candles, incense sticks, and the like. The offering of the bowls is said to pay homage to Buddha while erasing bad luck.
The Elephant Festival. During many of his teachings, Buddha used a story of an elephant. A wild elephant, when caught, it tethered to a tame elephant in order to tame the wildness. So it is with people, Buddha said — those who understand and are reaching for enlightenment should “tether” themselves to those who are just starting out in order to teach them what they need to know. The Elephant Festival, held on the third Saturday in November, celebrates the elephant and Buddha’s teaching.
Songkran. A massive “spring cleaning” that takes place in April, people wash their homes and their clothes, spray each other with water, and play in the rivers and streams. It is a break from the heat and a chance to enjoy each other.
Uposatha. This represents the four holy days of the month. They fall in the new moon, the full moon, and quarter-moon days.