The Theravada New Year is a time for religious observances, family gatherings, and cultural traditions. The festival is aligned with the first full moon in April. It marks the beginning of the Buddhist New Year and is a time to celebrate Buddha’s birth, enlightenment, and death, as well as the start of the rainy season.
Cultural Celebrations:
- Songkran (Thailand): Known for its water fights and playful spirit.
- Pi Mai (Laos): Celebrated with similar water-based festivities.
- Chaul Chnam Thmey (Cambodia): Features traditional dances, music, and offerings at temples.
- Thingyan (Myanmar): Also involves water-throwing and other cultural performances.
- Sinhalese New Year (Sri Lanka): Includes specific rituals and customs, like preparing special foods and playing traditional games.
Religious Observances:
Buddhists attend temple services, offer prayers and merit-making activities, and participate in meditation.
Family and Community:
The festival is a time for family reunions, visiting elders, and building sandcastles (a symbol of good luck).