Vesak is a major Buddhist festival and is a holiday observed traditionally by Buddhists on different days around the world to celebrate the birth of Gautama Buddha, the founder of Buddhism. Melbourne will hold a Multicultural Festival of celebrations on Saturday 20 & Sunday 21 May at Federation Square.
Vesak is a major Buddhist festival and is a holiday observed traditionally by Buddhists on different days around the world to celebrate the birth of Gautama Buddha, the founder of Buddhism. His teachings focused on messages about compassion, peace and goodwill and is usually observed on the day of the full moon in May. This particular 10 May date reflects the internationally recognised annual date set through a resolution by The General Assembly of the United Nations in 1999, to acknowledge the contribution that Buddhism, one of the oldest religions in the world, has made for over two and a half millennia and continues to make to the spirituality of humanity.
Buddha’s Day & Multicultural Festival
Buddha’s Day and Multicultural Festival, now in its 22nd year, is a major annual attraction held in Federation Square which commemorates the Buddha’s Birthday and celebrates the City of Melbourne’s multicultural and multi-faith society.
The event showcases traditional Buddhist ceremonies such as Bathing the Buddha, Tea Meditation, Twilight Light Offering Ceremony as well as multicultural music and dance performances, social and spiritual well-being lectures, world peace prayers, tai chi classes, interfaith ceremony, children’s activities, animal farm and more.
The much anticipated ‘Taste of Asia’ Vegetarian Food Fair will spread the length of the River Terrace offering vegetarian delights for all to enjoy.
Event Details
Program: Buddha’s Day & Multicultural Festival
Where: Federation Square, Melbourne
When: Saturday 20 May | 10am – 7pm and Sunday 21 May | 10am – 5pm
Price: Free
More Info: www.buddhaday.org.au
