Vesak Festival in Kandy, Sri Lanka – paying homage to Lord Buddha

Vesak Day, also known around the world as Buddha Day, is a religious and cultural holiday observed by most Buddhist countries, marking the birth, enlightenment and death of Lord Buddha. Sri Lanka celebrates Vesak on the day of the full moon in May, with several religious rituals and social activities. The city of Kandy, considered the centre of Buddhism in the island, throws its own uniquely, grand Vesak programs, usually organised by the main temple, the Sri Dalada Maligawa. Apart from the temple, other places to visit in Kandy to get a closer look at the colourful festival activities include the main city street, areas around the Sri Dalada Maligawa, and even hotels, like the Oak Ray City Hotel, for example, which are lit up with multi-coloured lights and traditional Vesak paper lanterns. Several stalls along the streets provide free food and beverages to onlookers, as a form of alms-giving.