Important festivals in Sri Lanka that are worth experiencing
Sri Lanka is an island with a rich and varied culture. This culture is also reflected in the many important festivals that take place throughout the year. These festivals are an opportunity for locals to celebrate their traditions and religion and also for tourists to learn more about Sri Lankan culture.
In this article, we take a look at some of the most important festivals in Sri Lanka. We will learn about their history, significance and what you can experience at them.
Vesak Poya: New Life, Enlightenment and the Death of the Buddha
Vesak Poya is one of the most important Buddhist festivals in Sri Lanka, celebrated throughout the island. Also known as Vesak, this festival commemorates three key events in the life of the Buddha: his birth, attainment of enlightenment and death.
During these days, Buddhists gather in temples for communal prayers, meditation and worship of the Buddha. Their clothing is often in bright colours, symbolising joy and a new beginning.
One of the most important traditions that take place during Vesak Poya is the purification act called the “Bath Dansal”. People prepare food and drinks which they then give to others free of charge. It is an act of compassion and sharing with other people.
Vesak Poya not only brings a spiritual message but also promotes unity and harmony among people of different religions in Sri Lanka. This festival is an opportunity for all people to come together in a common expression of love and respect.
Sinhala and Tamil New Year: the end of the harvest and the beginning of the new year
In the Sri Lankan calendar, Sinhala and Tamil New Year is the most important festival after Vesak Poya. It is celebrated in early April to welcome the new agricultural season and the beginning of the harvest. It is a time of celebration and joy when people from their families and with friends get together and spend time together.
Among the important parts of this holiday is the traditional laying of turtle eggs. This tradition is associated with agriculture and symbolizes abundance and fertility in the coming year. It is believed that laying the eggs in the sand will bring good luck and protection for future harvests.
Sinhala and Tamil New Year: the end of the harvest and the beginning of the new year
In the Sri Lankan calendar, Sinhala and Tamil New Year is the most important festival after Vesak Poya. It is celebrated in early April to welcome the new agricultural season and the beginning of the harvest. It is a time of celebration and joy when people from their families and with friends get together and spend time together.
Among the important parts of this holiday is the traditional laying of turtle eggs. This tradition is associated with agriculture and symbolizes abundance and fertility in the coming year. It is believed that laying the eggs in the sand will bring good luck and protection for future harvests.
This unique tradition is an important part of Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage and attracts both domestic and foreign tourists. Every year, celebrations are held in towns and villages across the country where various fun events and traditional ceremonies are held.
Kandy Esala Perahera: Sri Lanka’s biggest and most colourful festival
Kandy Esala Perahera is one of the most important festivals in Sri Lanka and also presents a unique opportunity for visitors to experience the island’s rich cultural tradition. This traditional Buddhist festival is held annually in the city of Kandy during July and August and lasts up to ten days.
Esala Perahera is renowned for the magnificence and diversity it offers. The main event of the festival is the parade of elephants, dancers and musicians that parades through the streets of the city. Thousands of people gather along the parade route to admire the stunning costumes, traditional dances, drums and other musical instruments that form part of the parade.
The festival has deep religious roots and celebrates the life and teachings of Buddha. It is also an opportunity for locals to express their devotion to their faith and pray for good luck and good health. Historical stories and legends are also performed during Esala Perahera, which are an important part of Sri Lankan culture.
This festival is a unique opportunity for tourists who want to experience the rich culture and traditions of Sri Lanka. Kandy Esala Perahera offers an unforgettable experience for all who attend.
Duruthu Perahera: Buddha’s First Visit to Sri Lanka
In the Sri Lankan calendar, the month of Duruthu is a special time as it is associated with a significant event – the visit of Buddha, the founder of the Buddhist religion in Sri Lanka. This event is celebrated annually as part of Duruthu Perahera, one of the most important cultural festivals on the island.
The Duruthu Perahera is a festive procession held in the city of Kandy, the main Buddhist centre of Sri Lanka. Filled with ornate elephants, colourful costumes and traditional dancers, the procession travels through the streets of the city, accompanied by the sound of drums and traditional musical instruments. Elephants are a very important part of the festival and symbolise power and good luck.
Duruthu Perahera is not only a cultural festival, but also a religious event in which worshippers offer prayers and sacrifices at temples. The festival lasts for several days and culminates in a spectacular fireworks display, symbolizing the removal of darkness and the beginning of new life.
Duruthu Perahera is therefore a unique opportunity to experience Sri Lankan culture and traditions. Join the celebration, whether you are a visitor to Sri Lanka or just interested in the island’s rich history and spiritual heritage.
Deepavali: The Hindu Festival of Light
Deepavali, also known as Diwali, is one of the most important Hindu festivals in India and around the world. It is celebrated during late October and early November and lasts for five days. Deepavali is a festival that brings joy, illumination and the victory of good over evil.
During Deepavali, houses and streets are decorated with thousands of lanterns and candles to welcome the god Rama and his consort Sita. Legends say that Rama returned to his kingdom after his victory over the demon Ravana, and the inhabitants celebrated his return by illuminating the entire city.
Deepavali is also used to prepare delicious dishes such as sweets and traditional Indian specialties. Families dress together in festive clothes and visit temples to pray and express their gratitude to the gods. It is an occasion for meeting friends and family, giving gifts and celebrating with each other.
Celebrating the victory of good over evil
Deepavali symbolizes the victory of good over evil and light over darkness. During Deepavali, people light fires and candles to remove darkness and create light and positive energy within and without. This festival is also an opportunity for a new beginning, finding inner peace and happiness.
Deepavali is also a time when various cultural performances, dances and fireworks are held. It is a festive and joyous event that brings people together and celebrates the spirit of togetherness and love.
Feel free to travel to Sri Lanka and celebrate Deepavali with family and friends, light candles, spread love and joy and celebrate the victory of good over evil.
Poya Days: A Religious Day for Buddhists
During Poya Days, Buddhists commemorate important events in the life of the Buddha. These religious festivals are associated with meditations and dressing in bright colors to symbolize purity and peace. One of the important rituals during Poya Days is meditation, which helps Buddhists achieve inner peace and enlightenment.
Meditation can vary – some Buddhists meditate sitting or lying down, while others practice walking meditation. Regardless of the specific technique, the intention is to focus on the present moment and discover a deep harmony and peace within oneself.
The uplifting atmosphere and dedicated practices during Poya Days bring a sense of peace and meaningfulness to the Buddhist community. It is a time to indulge in meditation and explore the deeper recesses of our inner world. Poya Days are a deeply enriching experience for any Buddhist seeking spiritual enrichment and balance.
Navam Perahera: A Celebration of the Buddha’s Teachings
Traditional Parades and Fireworks
Another important festival is coming up on the Sri Lankan calendar – Navam Perahera. This festival is held every year in February or March and is celebrated to commemorate the transmission of the Buddha’s spiritual teachings to his followers. It is one of the most awaited events in Colombo, where traditional processions draped in spectacular colours and exciting fireworks displays are held.
Navam Perahera marks the final festival of the perahera season in Sri Lanka. The parades are filled with musical instruments, dance and costumes that bring to life historical moments from the teachings of the Buddha. The streets are filled with people who come from far and wide to participate in this important religious and cultural festival.
During Navam Perahera, the streets of Sri Lanka are transformed into a living theatre. Traditionally, a replica of the shrine of Buddha’s relics is carried on a decorative elephant. Followed by an arch of fireworks and illuminated torches that create a magical atmosphere. Stalls offering traditional food, souvenirs and other attractions are set up along the way.
Navam Perahera is such a highlight of the Buddhist calendar in Sri Lanka. It is not only a religious event, but also an occasion where local communities and visitors come together and celebrate together. It is a time when Sri Lanka immerses itself in a colourful and exciting world and celebrates the vibrant teachings of the Buddha.
FAQ
Vesak Poya: What exactly are we celebrating?
Vesak Poya is a Buddhist festival that celebrates the birth, enlightenment and death of Gautama Buddha.
How is Sinhala and Tamil celebrated?
Sinhala and Tamil New Year is celebrated as the end of the harvest and the beginning of the new year. During this festival, people dress up in traditional clothes, prepare traditional food and perform various rituals.
How does the Kandy Esala Perahera festival take place?
Kandy Esala Perahera is the largest and most colourful festival in Sri Lanka. During this festival, traditional dances and music are held on the streets and a procession with the sacred tooth of Buddha is held.
What is Duruthu Perahera?
Duruthu Perahera is a cultural festival in Sri Lanka that celebrates the Buddha’s first visit to the island. The festival includes an elephant parade and various cultural activities.
What are we celebrating during the Deepavali festival?
Deepavali is a Hindu festival of light that celebrates the victory of good over evil. During the festival, lamps are lit and various rituals are performed.
What are Poya Days?
Poya Days are religious days for Buddhists in Sri Lanka. During these days, meditation is often practiced and people wear bright colours.
How is the festival of Navam Perahera celebrated?
Navam Perahera is a celebration of the teachings of the Buddha and takes place in the form of traditional processions and fireworks. This festival is one of the most important in Sri Lanka.