Buddha’s Birthday, often called Vesak or Buddha Purnima, is one of the most important Buddhist festivals and is celebrated with great reverence in monasteries around the world. Here’s how it’s typically celebrated at a monastery:

1. Early Morning Chanting and Meditation

Monks and devotees gather before sunrise for:

• Chanting of Buddhist scriptures (like the Dhammapada or Sutta Pitaka)

• Meditation sessions, focusing on mindfulness and compassion

• Lighting incense and offering prayers

2. Bathing the Buddha Ceremony

A symbolic ritual where:

• Devotees pour water or fragrant water over a statue of the baby Buddha

• This represents purification of the mind and soul

3. Offerings and Dana (Generosity)

• Monks receive alms (food, robes, medicines) from lay followers

• People offer flowers, fruits, candles, and incense at the altar

• Devotees engage in acts of charity, such as giving to the poor or releasing caged animals

4. Dharma Talks

Senior monks or teachers give talks on:

• The life and teachings of Buddha

• Practicing the Noble Eightfold Path

• The importance of compassion, non-violence, and mindfulness

5. Processions and Lanterns 

• In countries like Sri Lanka, Korea, and Vietnam, there may be lantern processions or Buddha statue parades

• Monasteries may be decorated with lanterns, flags, and images of the Buddha

6. Community Lunch

• A communal vegetarian meal is shared

• Prepared by lay followers and offered to the monks first

• Everyone joins in, reinforcing a sense of sangha (community)

7. Releasing Birds or Fish

• A symbolic act of compassion and liberation

• Participants release animals (often birds or fish) as a practice of kindness and freedom