Skip to Main Content

Holidays and Observances

This guide provides information about diverse cultural celebrations and religious holidays. It includes calendars and brief descriptions of the events. This resource can assist in event planning and classroom activities.

Background Information

Buddhism is very diverse and celebrations and observance vary depending on the movement.

Major Holidays

Bodhi Day

Bodhi Day commemorates the day the Buddha achieved enlightenment. It is observed on December 8 on the Gregorian calendar. On the lunar calendar, it falls between winter solstice and the lunar new year.

Māgha Pūjā Day

Māgha Pūjā commemorates a gathering between the Buddha and his early disciples. It is held on the full moon day of the third lunar month (usually February or March).

Vesak

Vesak or Wesak is a major festival celebrating the Buddha's birthday. It's celebrated on the first full moon day in the fourth lunar month (May or June). The date varies based on sect and area.

Log in to Read Ebooks (DI Students, Faculty and Staff)

To read these ebooks, click the links below and use your Microsoft 365 login credentials (your DI email address and password).

You can also click the LIRN Library tab in Canvas, which will take you to the LIRN Library Portal and log you into all of the library resources. Need help? Contact the DI Library.