Vesak Day this year is on the 22nd of May – in case you’re not entirely certain why you’re getting another public holiday in Singapore! Here are some facts and figures about this prominent Buddhist festival.
#1 Vesak Day is the most important day in the Buddhist calendar
Vesak Day celebrates three major events in the Buddha’s life: his birth, enlightenment (nirvana) and death (parinirvana). The day is honoured by temple visits, vegetarian meals and various offerings. Depending on the calendar you follow and your location, the date varies every year. In 2024, Vesak Day falls on the 22nd of May in Singapore; it’s the only Buddhist celebration among the public holidays.
#2 There are different branches of Buddhism
Theravada, Mahayana and Vajrayana are the three main branches of the religion. Theravada Buddhism is said to be the closest to the original Indian form of Buddhism; it’s practised in countries such as Sri Lanka, Thailand and Burma. In Singapore, Mahayana is most practised by Chinese Buddhists, followed by Theravada, practised by the Burmese and also the Sri Lankan community.
#3 Practices and rituals may vary
Depending on the branch they follow, devotees celebrate Vesak Day slightly differently. Mahayana Buddhists practise the “three-step, one-bow” ritual, bowing or prostrating every three steps as they go around the perimeter of the temple. Theravada Buddhist celebrations include cooking a milk rice pudding to symbolise Buddha’s last meal before his fasting period to attain Enlightenment.
Many Buddhists here organise blood donations at hospitals, visit people on old age homes and also distribute gifts to the needy.
#4 Vesak Day was not always a public holiday
The day was only made an official break from the working calendar in 1955. This followed petitions by the Singapore Buddhist Association after World War II.
#5 You don’t have to be Buddhist to join the celebrations
Experience this buddhist festival by heading to the following places:
- Kong Meng San Phor Kark See Monastery: Visit one of Singapore’s largest Buddhist monasteries on Bright Hill Road. Enjoy the colourful celebrations and rituals, including a solemn candlelight procession and meditation sessions.
- Lian Shan Shuang Lin Temple: Discover the peace of this century-old temple surrounded by lush greenery on Toa Payoh Rise. Appreciate the detailed architecture and join in the traditional Vesak Day ceremonies.
- Buddha Tooth Relic Temple & Museum: Dive into the rich Buddhist culture at this famous temple in Chinatown. Check out the museum exhibits, which include the revered Sacred Buddha Tooth Relic, and participate in evening prayers and rituals.
Haven’t decided what you’re doing at the weekend? Take a look at our Things to Do section!
