Buddhism orginated in South Asia around the 5th century BC with Siddhartha Guatama. They believe that human life is a cycle of suffering and rebirth, but that if one achieves a state of enlightenment, it is possible to escape this cycle forever. Siddhartha was the first to reach enlightenment, and is known as the Buddha. Buddhists do not believe in any kind of deity or god. There are three main schools of Buddhism: Mahayana, Theravada and Vajrayana, which is why there are different dates for the festivals or holidays below.
Please click on the below for more information on the festival or holiday.
- Nehan-e (15th February) – Buddha’s passing away
- Cho Trul Duchen (Full Moon in March) – Display of miracles
- Higan-e (21st March or 21st September) – Reminder of impermanence
- Hanamatsuri (8th April) – Buddha’s birth
- Vesak, Buddha Day (Full Moon in May) or Saka Dawa (Full Moon in June) – Buddha’s birth, Enlightenment and passing away
- Dhammacakka Day or Chor Khor Duchen (Full Moon in July) – First teaching
- Kathina (Full Moon in October or November) – Offerings made to the Sangha
- Lha Bab Duchen (Full Moon in November) – Teaching in the Realm of gods to mother and other gods
- Jodo-e (8th December) – Buddha’s Enlightenment
Holidays & Special Events 