EVENT DETAILS:
Theravada New Year (Buddhist)
Celebrated by the Buddhist branch of Theravada, this holiday is celebrated for three days following the first full moon in April. This day marks Buddha’s birth, death, enlightenment and the start of the rain season. It is considered one of the largest holidays of the year for adherents in many South East Asian countries such as Sri Lanka, Cambodia, Laos, Burma, Thailand, and India.
Buddhists celebrate this time by participating in special ceremonies, paying respect to elders, giving charity, and building sandcastles which are said to bring good luck. Many people gather with families and friends to celebrate with food and games.