Sri Lanka is one of the most beautiful and vibrant countries in the world, and has a long and storied history. As a result, it has many holidays and festivals that are celebrated throughout the year. While some are based on religious or cultural traditions, others are just for fun. If you’re planning a trip to Sri Lanka in 2023, it’s important to check out the holiday calendar in advance to make sure you don’t miss out on any of the amazing experiences this country has to offer.
The first holiday of the year is Vesak, which marks the birth, enlightenment, and passing away of the Buddha. It’s celebrated on the full moon day in the month of May, and is one of the most important Buddhist festivals. During this time, people from all over the country will celebrate with processions, offering of flowers, and special prayers.
The next holiday on the calendar is Thai Pongal, which is a harvest festival celebrating the successful completion of the harvest season. This holiday is celebrated on the 15th of January and is a time for families to come together and share meals. There are also traditional games, dances, and other festivities to enjoy.
In the month of March, it’s time to celebrate Sinhala and Tamil New Year. This is a time to look back on the year and celebrate the start of a fresh one. People celebrate by wearing new clothes, playing traditional games, and eating special dishes.
Another popular Sri Lankan holiday is Navam Perahera, which is celebrated in the month of April. This is a Buddhist festival that commemorates an ancient festival held in honor of the Tooth Relic of the Buddha. During the celebration, a procession of elephants and brightly-colored dancers make their way through the streets.
In the month of June, it’s time to celebrate Poson, which is a Buddhist holiday commemorating the arrival of the Buddha’s teachings in Sri Lanka. It’s celebrated with processions and the offering of flowers and lamps to the temple. This is also a popular time for pilgrimage.
In the month of August, it’s time to celebrate one of the most important Hindu holidays in Sri Lanka, Krishna Janmashtami. This is a celebration of the birth of Krishna, an avatar of the god Vishnu. It’s celebrated with special prayers and offerings, and traditional dances.
In September, it’s time to celebrate Navarathri, which is one of the most important Hindu festivals. This holiday celebrates the victory of good over evil. People celebrate by lighting up the skies with fireworks and offering special prayers.
In the month of October, it’s time for Deepavali, which is a festival of lights. On this day, people light lamps, exchange gifts, and partake in traditional dances.
Finally, in the month of December, it’s time to celebrate Christmas. This is a time of fun and celebration, with many people taking part in special church services and exchanging gifts.
These are just a few of the holidays and festivals that are celebrated throughout the year in Sri Lanka. If you’re planning a trip to this beautiful country in 2023, make sure to check out the holiday calendar in advance so that you don’t miss out on any of the amazing experiences it has to offer.