31/05/2026
Happy Wesak Day!
Hahaha no, it is not a spelling mistake. It was spelt Wesak Day until the 1970s and this day commemorates the birth, enlightenment and attainment of nirvana of Siddharta Gautama Shakyamuni (Sakyamuni) Buddha.
Vesak Day usually falls on the 15th day of the fourth lunar month (did you also know today at around 4.45pm, is the full peak of the Blue Moon?)
In Singapore, many of the Chinese practise Mahayana (“Greater Way”) Buddhism whereas Theravada (“Way of the Elders”) Buddhism is mainly practised by Singapore’s Sri Lankan and Burmese Buddhist communities.
So what is the difference? Mahayana Buddhism believes nirvana can be attained not only through self-perseverance but also through the help of bodhisattva or “enlightened ones”. Theravada Buddhism believes one seeks own path to salvation.
This festival is a time to reflect on the core values of compassion, peace, and generosity and over the years, we have seen how the celebration of Vesak Day in Singapore has evolved. This 2026, Singapore saw the largest animal (dogs, cats, hamsters, rabbits and a pet chicken) blessing ceremony which offered blessings for the animals’ wellbeing, happiness, and future.
So what are you doing this Vesak Day? For us, it is a day to “eat grass” (it is our playful reference to Vesak Day being a vegetarian to practice compassion). Have a good day of rest or travel or time with family!