Buddhist Festivals and Traditions

Each of the major Buddhist holidays and festivals includes special traditions and customs. On Vesak, some Buddhists honor Buddha’s birthday by bathing Buddha statues and offering them food and flowers. Some traditions also decorate temples with lotus flowers made from paper, symbolizing awakening. Asalha Puja celebrates Buddha’s first public teaching. In some Southeast Asian countries, Buddhist New Year is celebrated with joyful water fights to represent the cleansing of a fresh start. Clear text and vibrant photos help readers gain a greater understanding of these and other Buddhist traditions.