Sri Lanka Holidays

Full moon day commemorating Buddha's first visit to Sri Lanka.

Tamil harvest festival marking the beginning of the sun's journey northwards.

Commemorates the first Buddhist Council and Buddha appointing his two chief disciples.

Celebrates Sri Lanka's independence from British rule on February 4, 1948.

Hindu festival celebrating Lord Shiva, observed with fasting and night vigils.

Commemorates Buddha's first visit to his father's palace after enlightenment.

Islamic holiday marking the end of Ramadan. Date approximate based on lunar calendar.

Commemorates Buddha's second visit to Sri Lanka to settle a dispute.

Christian holiday commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.

Eve of the traditional New Year celebrated by Sinhalese and Tamils.

Traditional New Year celebrated by both Sinhalese and Tamil communities.

Celebrates Buddha's birth, enlightenment, and passing. Also International Workers' Day.

Second day of Vesak celebrations, the most sacred Buddhist holiday.

Islamic Festival of Sacrifice. Date approximate based on lunar calendar.

An additional Poya day falling in the month of Poson.

Commemorates the introduction of Buddhism to Sri Lanka by Mahinda Thero.

Commemorates Buddha's first sermon and the arrival of the Sacred Tooth Relic.

Celebrates the birthday of Prophet Muhammad. Date approximate based on lunar calendar.

Commemorates the first Buddhist Council held after Buddha's passing.

Commemorates Buddha's visit to heaven to preach to his mother.

Marks the end of the rainy retreat for Buddhist monks.

Hindu festival of lights celebrating the victory of light over darkness.

Commemorates the ordination of 60 disciples to spread Buddha's teachings.

Commemorates the arrival of the Bo-tree sapling brought by Sangamitta Theri.

Christian holiday celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ.