Vesak for the year 2024 is celebrated/observed on Friday, May 5th. There are until the next observance.

In some traditions, Vesak, May 5, commemorates Buddha’s birth, as well as his enlightenment and death. Since 1950, when the World Fellowship of Buddhists designated it as Buddha’s birthday, the holiday has been officially observed.

πŸ“† When is Vesak?

This year, Vesak is on May 5th. It is the 1st Friday in May; in 2024, it is on Sunday.

Countdown to Vesak

β†’ Did you know: Buddha’s three principal teachings were not to be ignorant, not to hate, and not to be angry.

You can also view all cool things you didn’t know about and facts about May 5, 2023.

πŸ“œ History of Vesak

Gautama Buddha, or Prince Siddhartha Gautama, as he was known at the time, was born in Nepal to a tribal chieftain in 490 B.C. When Gautama reached manhood, he founded an austere group that grew into a whole religion after his death. It is a frequent myth that Gautama’s name was Buddha; however, it is a title that means “the enlightened one.” Throughout his life, he dedicated himself to teaching and sharing lessons of peace, compassion, and love with others. Today, millions of followers all throughout the world follow Buddha’s teachings. Vesak is a holiday that commemorates Buddha’s birth, teachings, enlightenment, and death.

The United Nations officially recognized Vesak Day in 1999, recognizing the efforts of one of the world’s oldest religions, Buddhism, to foster peace for over 2,500 years. Vesak is also observed yearly in the United Nations offices and headquarters, as well as by other organizations and Buddhist groups across the world. This day is marked by cultural song and dance performances, public statements presented by community leaders, and temple adornment. On Vesak Day, acts of goodwill and charity are also more prevalent than usual.

β˜‘οΈ Vesak facts

βœ… Buddha wasn’t as depicted
Buddha was not overweight, despite what most people think. He spent most of his time walking and fasting every day.

βœ… His enlightenment was predicted
A few days after Buddha’s birth, an elderly man foretold that he would go on to become a great saint who would alter the world.

βœ… Means and methods
Unlike other faiths, Buddhism spread through word of mouth and practice rather than violence.

✨ Things to do on Vesak

⚑ Learn about international traditions
Amacha, a sweet tea produced from hydrangea blossoms, is poured over monuments in Japan. Colorful lanterns are hung in front of homes and along roadways in Sri Lanka. Indonesian Buddhist monks circle their temples, reciting chants and meditating together.

⚑ Prepare (or just enjoy) a vegetarian meal
One Vesak practice in various nations is the releasing of thousands of birds, insects, and animals to signify the liberation of people imprisoned. If you enjoy meat, you may try eating like a vegetarian for a day to increase your awareness of the sanctity of all life.

⚑ Celebrate even if you’re not a Buddhist
Because the heart of celebrating Vesak is to celebrate life, think of anything that makes you feel alive. This may be as simple as going for a long walk and soaking in all the beauty of nature around you, singing, cookingβ€”anything that enables you to be totally present during that moment, when your senses are heightened and you feel the delight of being alive. Then share your happiness with someone else.

πŸ“… Vesak Observances

YEAR DATE DAY
2023 May 5 Friday
2024 May 5 Sunday
2025 May 5 Monday
2026 May 5 Tuesday
2027 May 5 Wednesday

Learn all May holidays, including Religious and other Buddhist holidays.

We will continue to update this page with new information and cool facts about Vesak. So be sure to check back soon.