Wesak is the most important day in the Buddhist calendar and is celebrated in May. Also known as Vesak or Buddha Day, Wesak celebrates the birthday, enlightenment and death of Buddha. It is held the day of the first full moon in May. On this day, Buddhists celebrate Buddha’s teachings and remember his insights about death, karma, rebirth, and suffering. Wesak is a celebration of joy and color. Buddhists clean and decorate their homes and begin to celebrate before dawn. Water is poured over Buddha statues and offerings are made to Buddhist monks and temples. Temples offer vegetarian food, lectures and candlelit processions. Learn more about this special holiday, and share these interesting activity ideas with your Montessori students.
