What are the Buddhist festivals?

There are many important Buddhist festivals, and the following are some of the major ones:

1. Buddha's Birthday (Wesak): the day on which the three important events of the Buddha's birth, attainment of enlightenment and nirvana are celebrated. On this day, Buddhists gather in temples to hold pujas, chant sutras and salute the Buddha, and preach his teachings.

2. Ullambana: Also known as the Festival of the Middle Ages or the Festival of Ghosts, Ullambana is a festival celebrated for the salvation of the dead and lonely ghosts. Buddhists will make Bon offerings, chant confessions, and pray for the repose of the dead.

3. Avalokitesvara's Birthday: Commemorates the birth day of the Goddess of Mercy. Buddhists gather in temples to recite the Kuan Yin scriptures and pray for Kuan Yin's blessings and compassion.

4. Vassa: A month in which Buddhists observe three months of peaceful meditation to commemorate the historical event of the Buddha teaching the Dharma to his disciples during the rainy season.

5. New Year's Eve (Buddhist New Year's Eve): Celebrates the traditional Buddhist New Year. Buddhists would gather in temples to perform rituals such as chanting, penance, and releasing of life to welcome the new year.

These Buddhist festivals may vary in different regions, but they are all important celebrations and spiritual events for Buddhists. By celebrating these festivals, Buddhists can deepen their understanding of the Buddha and the Dharma, and enhance their practice.