Do you want to visit the beautiful country of Sri Lanka? Get ready to be enchanted not only by its beautiful scenery and friendly people, but also by its rich blend of cultural events that happen every month of the year. Sri Lanka has many festivals all through the year. These events show how Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam, and Christianity all work together in this unique country. Visitors to these events have a one-of-a-kind chance to fully experience the island nation’s rich traditions and customs. Let us take you on a tour of Sri Lanka’s seasonal holidays, one month at a time. This way, you’ll be sure to be ready to celebrate with respect and fully experience the culture.
January:
Duruthu Full Moon Poya (January Poya)
Duruthu Poya is a celebration of the Buddha’s initial voyage to Sri Lanka. It marks the start of the Buddhist poya cycle. A lot of people go to temples to give alms, relax, and take part in religious ceremonies. See a spirit of prayer and thought spread across the country. Tips: When you go to a temple, dress modestly. Keep a polite silence during times of prayer.
Thai Pongal
Thai Pongal is a festival of harvest in Sri Lanka that is celebrated by the Tamil people to show appreciation for a good crop. Watch as families get together to make “Pongal,” a traditional dish of boiled rice with sugar and milk. Floor Rangoli patterns called “kolams” are used to decorate homes, and colourful processions may go through the streets. Remember to be aware of ongoing religious routines. Watch celebrations from a polite distance if you’re not taking part.
February
Independence Day (February 4th)
Independence Day in Sri Lanka is an important day because it marks the end of British colonial rule and the start of a new country’s independence. The largest celebration takes place in Colombo, where the President raises the flag of the country. In a national speech, the President talks about the progress the country has made and its plans for the future. In addition to these events, there are parades, culture shows, and fireworks shows. In towns and villages, people raise flags and eat delicious local foods as part of smaller gatherings. The main event and the President’s speech are shown on TVs across the country, and news channels show special shows about the country’s past and accomplishments. In general, Independence Day in Sri Lanka is a happy and proud event.
Nwam poya
In Sri Lanka, there Buddhist Poya Day for every month. February poya is known as Navam Poya. it is observed on the full moon of February. It honors two important occasions: the Buddha’s descent from Tavatimsa and the appointment of Sariputta and Moggallana, two of his principal pupils. Buddhists in Sri Lanka give alms, take part in meditation, hear religious teachings, follow vegetarianism, and refrain from alcohol on Navam Poya.
Nawam perahera
In conjunction to Nawam poya A major celebration happens in Colombo Sri Lanka, Navam perehra is a two-night Buddhist procession that ends at the Gangaramaya Temple in Colombo. This colorful celebration, which includes a lengthy parade that winds through Colombo’s streets, is regarded as one of the most spectacular cultural pageants in the nation. Elephants decked out in traditional Sri Lankan dancing, floats portraying historical or Buddhist events, fire-eaters, whip crackers, and jugglers are just a few of the spectacle’s many components. In addition to honoring Buddha, Navam Perahera promotes togetherness and shared traditions by presenting Sri Lanka’s rich cultural legacy. In Sri Lanka, Navam Poya and Navam Perahera together constitute a unique occasion that offers a spiritual center and a lively celebration of faith and culture.
March
Maha Shivaratri
Maha Shivaratri is a public festival dedicated to worshiping Lord Shiva, the Hindu god of regeneration and destruction. Traditionally, devotees fast for the entire day while attending Shiva temples to do special pujas and make sacrifices. The Shiva Linga is bathed in holy materials, vermillion paste, and fruits during the abhishekam ritual. Sessions of meditation are also popular, offering chances for introspection. Special performances of traditional Indian dance forms, such Bharatanatyam, that tell stories about Shiva are part of cultural festivities. Additionally, devotees have the option of making pilgrimages to see well-known Shiva temples—five of which are especially noteworthy. Sri Lanka’s Maha Shivaratri is a colorful and spiritual event that honors the importance of Lord Shiva in Hinduism by facilitating religious devotion, introspection, and cultural expression.
Medin full moon poya day
In Sri Lankan Buddhism, Medin Full Moon Poya is an important day that honors Gautama Buddha’s first visit to Sri Lanka following his enlightenment. This trip is seen as a turning point in the history of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. It is linked to three significant occasions in the life of the Buddha: his pilgrimage to Kapilawatthu, his manifestation of Yamamahapelahara through miracle, and the devotion of King Suddhodhana. By going to temples, taking part in meditation sessions, and attending religious lectures, devotees honor the Buddha. They also perform deeds of merit-making, such charitable deeds and offering alms to monks. It’s also typical for families to get together for vegetarian meals and to tell tales about the life and teachings of the Buddha. In general, Medin Full Moon Poya is a time for Buddhists in Sri Lanka to ponder the teachings of the Buddha, commemorate his life, and engage in acts of kindness and good actions.
April
Bak Full Moon Poya
Celebrated in April in Sri Lanka, Bak Full Moon Poya honors Gautama Buddha’s second visitation to the island of Nagadipa. Five years following his enlightenment, an important conflict between two Naga (serpent) communities was resolved at that time. Peace and harmony were aided by the Buddha’s teachings and physical presence. The Nagadeepa Purana Rajamaha Viharaya is situated near Nagadipa, in the Northern Province of Sri Lanka, off the coast of Jaffna. Since it’s a national holiday, businesses, government buildings, and schools are closed, enabling people to celebrate and engage in religious observances. Visits to temples, periods of meditation, deeds of merit-making, and vegetarian meals are among the observances. Bak Full Moon Poya invites Sri Lankans to consider the peace and compassion that the Buddha preached, and to put these ideals into practice in their own lives.
Sinhala and tamil new year
Avurudu, the Sinhala and Tamil New Year, is a major celebration in Sri Lanka that ushers in a new year and signifies the conclusion of the harvest season. The celebration honors the fusion of Tamil and Sinhala cultures during spring, a season of rebirth and new beginnings. Family get-togethers, alms-giving, customary games, house cleaning, décor, and fireworks are all part of the celebration.
Astrological computations and alignments are also intimately associated with the New Year’s celebrations. The actual start of the New Year is recognized by the astrological event known as “mesa sankrantiya” in Sinhala and “mesha sankranti” in Tamil, which is the sun’s movement from the sign of Pisces to Aries.
Particularly prominent in Tamil and Sinhala customs are the New Year’s rituals of cleaning and purifying homes, lighting fireplaces, and preparing traditional meals. These delicacies, which are eaten among family and friends, have symbolic meaning and include “kiribath” (milk rice), “kavum” (oil cakes), and “kokis” (crispy fried snacks). Gift-giving, visiting family, and requesting blessings for the upcoming year are further traditions associated with the New Year. Key activities are scheduled around astrologically determined auspicious times, and traditional games and pastimes, including avurudu games, are enjoyed by people of all ages, promoting joy and friendship.
Typical Sinhala customs include the Neutral Period (Nonagathe), which is the fasting perioed and used engage in religious activities , New Year’s Day, Buddhist temple arrange ceremonies, and specific prayers and rituals performed both at home and in temples. On new years day they share gifts and sweets as well as money and wishes such subs aluth awruddak wewa which means Happy new year. During new year there is an aspicous time to start eating after fasting and go to work etc.
In conclusion, the Sinhala and Tamil New Year is a lively occasion that unites Sri Lankan families, communities, and cultures to celebrate fresh starts, uphold customs, and exchange blessings for a fruitful year to come.
The Sinhala and Tamil new years typically fall on April 13 and 14, although most companies provide their workers vacation time four to five days before and four to five days following the holiday. Therefore, be careful to stock up on necessities if you plan to visit Sri Lanka during the new year’s holiday.
May
Vesak full moon poya day
Vesak Poya is a major Buddhist holiday that honors the birth, enlightenment, and parinirvana of Gautama Buddha. It is observed on May’s full moon Poya Day. The oil lamps and vibrant lanterns that adorn the celebration are symbolic of the Buddha’s teachings spreading throughout the world and driving out darkness. Vesak revolves around the concept of Dana (Giving), which involves acts of charity and generosity. Buddha’s life and teachings are depicted in pandal displays, along with events related to meditation, religious discourse, vegetarianism, and abstinence from alcohol. In certain places, candlelit processions are organized to foster a serene and spiritual environment.
A major Buddhist holiday in Sri Lanka, Vesak Poya gives visitors a chance to fully experience the lively culture and spiritual customs of the nation. During the festival, there are pandal jumping, lantern pleasures, and Dharma Talks. Additionally, certain temples host public religious lectures. When visiting temples or taking part in celebrations, visitors should dress modestly, stay away from loud noises, and be aware of their behavior.
Dansal is a distinct festival custom that embodies the essence of Vesak by providing free food and beverages to anyone who visits . Visitors are welcome to have a Dansal meal, but they should queue up, dress modestly, show thanks, and think about giving something. Recall that Vesak Poya is a very sacred holiday observed by Sri Lankans; so, show consideration for their customs and traditions. Visitors can enjoy a meaningful and respectful experience while taking in the significance and beauty of Sri Lanka’s Vesak Poya by adhering to these rules.
June
Poson full moon poya day
The second-most significant Buddhist holiday in Sri Lanka, Poson Poya, honors the introduction of Buddhism in the third century BC. It is a significant date in Sri Lankan history and culture because it is when Arhat Mahinda, the son of Emperor Ashoka, arrived and gave King Devanampiyatissa the Buddha’s teachings. Buddhist temples are frequented by devotees who pay respects to the Buddha and Arhat Mahinda by presenting flowers, incense, and lights. Temples host special religious discourses, and Buddhists follow the Sil commandments, which encourage morality and decency in behavior. In certain places, dramatizations of Arhat Mahinda’s arrival might be seen. Festive touches are added to cultural events with traditional dance performances and music.
July
Esala poya
Buddhists in Sri Lanka celebrate Asala Poya with a variety of religious rituals aimed at strengthening their spiritual practices and remembering these important historical occurrences. Devotees congregate in temples decked out in vibrant decorations for religious events, meditation sessions, and Dhamma talks. On Poya days, many Buddhists also follow the Eight Precepts (Ata Sil), which include moral restraint, renunciation of earthly pleasures, and self-dedication to spiritual endeavors.
Buddhists in Sri Lanka celebrate Asala Poya with a variety of religious rituals aimed at strengthening their spiritual practices and remembering these important historical occurrences. Devotees go to temples decked with vibrant decorations.Preaching the Dhamma (or “Dhamma Deshana”) is one of the most prominent rites connected to Asala Poya. Buddhist monks impart lessons on the core principles of Buddhism through sermons and talks, stressing the value of morality, compassion, and knowledge in living a good life.
Apart from religious celebrations, Asala Poya is also a time for charitable deeds and kindness. Buddhists practice virtuous acts of kindness and emancipation, such as giving alms to monks, contributing to charitable causes, and releasing animals.
Kandy esala perahera
Taking place in July or August, the Kandy Esala Perahera is a large Buddhist celebration that holds great cultural and religious importance. It honors the Buddha’s precious tooth relic, which is said to be kept in Kandy’s Temple of the Tooth Relic (Dalada Maligawa). This celebration has a rich history that extends back many centuries to the Kandyan Kingdom’s era.
Throughout the ten days of the Perahera, there is an enthralling parade through Kandy’s streets every night. The majestic elephant march, complete with elaborate costumes and elaborately painted structures carrying the sacred relic, is the climax of the Perahera. Traditional drummers, dancers, and other entertainers accompany the elephants, adding to the spectacle with their entrancing rhythms and vibrant displays. Along with floats portraying historical events and figures from Buddhist mythology, the procession also features fire dancers who captivate onlookers with their audacious stunts.
Katharagama perhera
A special religious occasion honoring Lord Skanda, also known as Kataragama Deviyo, is held in July and is called the Kataragama Festival. As a Hindu god, Lord Skanda is worshipped and is connected to protection, victory, and battle. Nonetheless, the celebration crosses denominational lines, drawing followers from a variety of faiths, such as Buddhists, Hindus, and Native American tribes.
The Kataragama Festival and the Kandy Esala Perahera provide visitors with a singular chance to fully engage with Sri Lanka’s diverse cultural heritage. At the Kataragama Festival, visitors can take in the vivid confluence of Hindu and indigenous customs, as well as the grandeur of Buddhist traditions, at the Esala Perahera. Travelers can create priceless memories of their stay on the island and obtain a deeper understanding of Sri Lanka’s cultural history by appropriately taking part in these celebrations.
In summary, July is a month of celebration and cultural discovery in Sri Lanka, when historic customs are revived against a backdrop of breathtaking scenery and gracious hospitality. Whether taking in the spiritual intensity of the Kataragama Festival or marveling at the magnificence of the Kandy Esala Perahera, guests
August
Nikini poya
August’s full moon Poya day falls on Nikini Poya, a major day in the Sri Lankan Buddhist calendar. Because it honors two significant occasions, Buddhists have a particular place in their hearts for it:
The First Buddhist Council: At Sattapanni Cave in Rajagaha (modern-day Rajgir, India), 500 arahant (enlightened) Theravada monks gathered three months after the Buddha’s parinirvana, or death. The revered Mahakassapa Thera presided over this historic meeting, which had as its goal the preservation of the Dhamma, or the teachings of the Buddha, in their most unadulterated form. The council carefully recited and codified the fundamentals of Buddhism over the course of seven months, establishing the groundwork for the Theravada tradition that is still strong in Sri Lanka today.
Rahula Thera’s Ordination: Nikini Poya also commemorates Rahula, the son of the Buddha, being ordained as a novice monk. Rahula proved the Dhamma path’s transformational power on the day he reached insight, despite his youth.
Although Nikini Poya is particularly important to Buddhists, everyone should recognize the importance of upholding customs and teachings on this day. It serves as a timely reminder of the transformational potential of knowledge and the value of imparting wisdom to the next generation.
If you are in Sri Lanka during Nikini Poya, you can experience the serene atmosphere and partake in the reverent spirit by visiting temples. But it’s crucial to respect continuing religious customs and dress modestly. When chanting or listening to sermons, please keep quiet and don’t disturb others.
Nikini Poya is proof of the teachings of the Buddha’s continuing influence. By celebrating this day, Sri Lanka demonstrates its dedication to upholding the Dhamma for the benefit of all people as well as honoring a historical occasion.
September
Binara full moon poya
Binara Poya commemorates the Buddha’s return to the world following his retreat in the celestial Tavatimsa. Buddhist texts state that the Buddha descended to Tavatimsa in order to teach his mother, Mahaprajapati Gothami, the Abhidharma teachings. Three months later, he returned to the human world to go on imparting his knowledge to all creatures.
The Buddha’s compassion and his commitment to disseminating the Dhamma (teachings) for the good of mankind are symbolized by Binara Poya. Given that the Buddha descended in order to be with his mother again, it emphasizes the value of filial piety.
October
Vup full moon poya
This celebrates the Buddha’s command to the Bhikkhu (monk) community to travel and disseminate the Dharma (teachings) across the globe and falls on the full moon Poya day of October. Buddhists go to temples for meditation, observances, and contemplation of the monastic life.
Kelaniya, a suburb of Colombo, hosts the colorful Medi Perahera parade around the same time as vap Poya. It is a spectacular display that honors the guardian deity of the Kelaniya temple and features drummers, elephants, and Kandyan dancers.
November
Ill full moon poya
In Sri Lankan culture and religion, the Ill Poya—also called the Ill Full Moon Poya—has particular significance. The precise date of this celebration, which falls on November’s full moon day, fluctuates every year in accordance with the lunar calendar. Here’s a closer look at what makes Ill Poya so special:
Significance: There are various noteworthy occurrences associated with the Buddhist tradition on the day of Il Poya.
Completion of the Rainy Season (Vassa): This marks the end of the monks’ three-month rainy season retreat, during which they focus entirely on meditation and study.
Bodhisatta Maitreya Obtaining Vivarana: This day is celebrated in Buddhism as the Bodhisatta Maitreya being assured that he will become a Buddha in a future life. It represents the path to enlightenment and the achievement of spiritual goals.
Thuparamaya Stupa’s Foundation Stone: According to tradition, the Thuparamaya stupa in Anuradhapura was built on the day of Ill Poya. After Buddhism was introduced to the country, Thuparamaya is thought to have been the first stupa constructed in Sri Lanka.
December
Unduvap Poya,
December marks Unduvap Poya, which honors the journey of Sangamitta Theri, the daughter of Indian Emperor Asoka, who brought a seedling of the revered Bodhi tree to Sri Lanka. This occasion is important because it represents the spread of Buddhism throughout the island nation.
Christmas
Significance: Although the Christian minority in Sri Lanka observes Christmas as a religious holiday, the celebration has spread beyond religious lines to become a generally accepted cultural event. Festive décor, happy gatherings, and deeds of kindness are characteristics of the season.
A happy environment is created in Sri Lankan cities and towns by the festive decorations, Christmas trees, and brilliant lights.
By participating in holiday celebrations, dining with local families on festive occasions, and attending Christmas Eve Mass at churches, visitors can witness the distinctive blend of Western and Sri Lankan customs.
It’s critical to acknowledge the religious significance of Christmas while yet valuing the inclusive and unifying attitude that permeates Sri Lankan celebrations.
Basic Advice:
Dress modestly: Choose clothes that covers your knees and shoulders when you visit temples or attend religious ceremonies. This demonstrates respect for regional traditions.
Request permission: Always get consent before taking pictures of those participating in religious rituals.
Be considerate of noise: Steer clear of obnoxious noises and disruptive conduct when around temples and during religious rituals.
Grin and extend your greetings. In Sri Lanka, a simple “Ayubowan” (Sinhala meaning “May you live long”) and a warm smile do the trick.
Respectful conduct: Pay attention to regional traditions and customs. Avoid making demonstrations of affection in public and refrain from kicking religious figures or persons.
On poya days
Poya Days: In Sri Lanka, Buddhists observe these days as holy occasions. Here’s how to treat people with respect at these times:
Temple visits: Be calm and courteous if you go to temples on Poya days.
Meat and alcohol sales and consumption may be prohibited in certain locations on Poya days. If in doubt, confirm locally and be ready.
stores and enterprises: On Poya days, some stores and businesses may have shortened hours or be closed completely.
Festival Days: Throughout the year, Sri Lanka hosts a number of vivid and colorful festivals. Here are some more pointers for these kinds of occasions:
Have patience: Festivals often draw sizable crowds, so if you need to get a good place, arrive early and be ready for big crowd.
Photography with respect: Take pictures of the sights, but don’t use flash photography as this could ruin the mood or irritate other people.
Bargaining: Be ready to bargain nicely when you shop in festival markets. In Sri Lanka, people often do this, and a grin goes a long way.
Savor the vibe: Enjoy the joyous occasion, contribute politely when you can, and make lifelong memories.
You may make sure that your time in Sri Lanka’s lively festival season and Poya days is polite and culturally enlightening by paying attention to these pointers. Recall that the key is to fully immerse yourself in the community’s culture and to observe the festivities with understanding and respect.
