Vesak Day In Singapore: BusyKidd’s Ultimate Guide

What is Vesak Day in Singapore? When is Vesak Day in Singapore? How is Vesak Day celebrated? Vesak is the most sacred day of a great importance in Buddhism, and as you have probably guessed, it is what we are going to talk about this time. Join BusyKidd on our fascinating adventure into the Vesak day in The Little Red Dot. However, we would like to begin our story with the meaning of Vesak Day, its history, and rituals.

Related Reading: Check out our guides to Racial Harmony Day, Deepavali In Singapore: BusyKidd’s Ultimate Guide, Lantern Festival.

What is Vesak Day?

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Vesak Day Meaning

Vesak Day (aka Waisak, Wesak, Buddha Day, and Visakha Bucha Day) is one of the meaningful Buddhist holidays. This is the Day of the Full Moon, which commemorates Gautama Buddha’s birthday, a day of his enlightenment and death. It is an occasion to glorify the life of Buddha and reflect on his teachings. This is a mind-blowing happening that brings candle-lit parades, rituals, and lots of good deeds, as well as some powerful spiritual energy.

When is Vesak Day celebrated? The date of the Vesak relies on Asian lunisolar calendars. It is primarily celebrated at the moment of the 1st full moon in the month of Vaisakha (a month of both the Buddhist and Hindu calendars that actually gave the name to this holiday). The date is different each year and may vary by country. Usually, Vesak Day is in April or May. But in the leap year, it may fall at the beginning of June.

Who celebrates Vesak Day? Millions of Buddhists worldwide consider it the most sacred day. Where is Vesak Day celebrated? Vesak Day is celebrated in South Asia and Southeast Asia, as well as in some countries in Central Asia. Vesak Day is among the most significant celebrations in Myanmar, Laos, India, Bangladesh, and many other states. As you have already guessed, Vesak Day is meaningful in Singapore as well.

Vesak Day History

Almost all Buddhist festivals boast age-long traditions. Nevertheless, the decision to celebrate Vesak Day was formalized only in 1950. In 1999, the United Nations General Assembly officially recognized Vesak as an international holiday.

Vesak Day Traditions

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Let us check some facts about Vesak Day traditions!

The Vesak Day – or Buddha Day – celebrates 3 major events in Buddha’s life: his birth, enlightenment, and passing away. All devotees gather, find out more about the Buddha’s teachings, and spread their joy and energy.

On Vesak Day, temples lit up with candles and lamps – to focus attention on the fact that the Buddha showed people the way to become enlightened. Houses and streets are decorated with Buddhist flags and flowers.

Buddhists go to local temples. Some may spend the whole day and night there. They sing hymns and praise the holy Triple Gem – the Buddha, the Dharma, and the Sangha. Families bring flowers, candles, and food to temples. People pray and meditate. Usually, each temple has its own programme to commemorate this day.

Another significant Buddhist tradition – Life Release – takes place on Vesak Day. Thousands release caged birds, animals, and insects as a sign of liberation. However, this practice is banned in some countries, including Singapore (because of the fact that it is almost impossible for these animals to survive in wild environments. Besides, this can negatively affect the local ecosystem).

‘The Bathing of the Buddha’ is another Vesak Day ritual you can watch. The water is poured onto the shoulders of Buddha statues – it is like a reminder that everyone needs to purify the heart and mind.

Vesak Day is about happiness and vivid colours. People clean homes and decorate them with Vesak Day decorations, such as flags, flowers, lanterns, and so on. On this day, Buddhists wear special white clothes. To become even closer to this enchanting celebration, you can opt for white skirts, shirts, and trousers. However, this is not compulsory. But it should be mentioned that short skirts, miniskirts, shorts, low-cut tops, or dresses are considered inappropriate attire for the Vesak Day celebration.

As for food on Vesak day, devotees are advised to eat only vegetarian food on this day. It is a crucial way to mark the occasion – well, and to stay healthy. By the way, we have selected some of the most delicious vegetarian and meat-free dishes to try with your family on Vesak Day!

Waisak Dishes:

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• Potato and Egg Rendang
• Veggie Spring Roll
• Sesame Rice Balls
• Pasta With Spinach, Mushrooms And Almonds
• Vegetarian Burger
• Vegetable Curry
• Dal
• And many other dishes

Finally, one of the most important and heartwarming aspects of Vesak Day traditions. This celebration is about giving to others. People give Vesak presents and cards to their families and loved ones. People also give to the needy. Families go to orphanages, nursing homes, charitable institutions, etc., present gifts, and donate. Some organizations also organize blood donations to hospitals on this day.

Vesak Day Greetings

As we have already written above, giving others is an essential part of Visakha Bucha Day. You can make your own Vesak cards and lanterns with your kids and present them to your nearest and dearest. Various Waisak Day gift boxes, candles, Buddha statues, and different Vesak Day-themed merch are also good options. The main aspect is that Waisak is about love, life, self-discovery, and positive energy, so any present with your sincere wishes will bring happiness to the people around you.

Let us check some of the Happy Vesak Day wishes:

• Let us all pray for peace and the end of all the suffering in the world.
• Wish your life be as beautiful as a pink lotus on a wild pond. 
• May you find guidance on the path towards wisdom.
• It’s Vesak! Glow up and go up! Buddha bless you!
• May Lord Buddha destroy all sins and obstacles in your life. Happy Vesak Day!
• Wishing that peace and tranquility be by your side! Today and Always!
• May your soul be pure and your mind bear happiness.

To help you plunge into the spirit of this celebration, we would like to share several inspirational Buddha quotes for this Vesak Day:

• ‘There are only 2 mistakes one can make along the road to truth: 1. Not going all the way. 2. Not starting.’
• ‘Do not dwell in the past, do not dream of the future, concentrate the mind on the present moment.’
• ‘Happiness will never come to those who fail to appreciate what they already have.’
• ‘Thousands of candles can be lighted from a single candle, and the life of the candle will not be shortened. Happiness never decreases by being shared.’
• ‘You only lose what you cling to.’
• ‘Rule your mind or it will rule you.’

Well, it is time to learn more about Vesak Day in Singapore.

Vesak Day in Singapore

As well as all Buddhists in various corners of our incredible planet, Buddhists in Singapore also observe the birth, enlightenment, and death of Gautama Buddha on Vesak Day. In The Lion City, this holiday is celebrated on the full moon of 4th lunar month.

Is Vesak Day a public holiday in Singapore? Yes, Wesak Day is a public holiday in Singapore, well-loved and marked by many Singaporeans. It is interesting to know that the earliest mention of Vesak Day being celebrated in Singapore dates back to 1925. However, the move to make Vesak Day a public holiday only started after World War II.

Since Buddhism is the largest religion in Singapore (it is practiced by more than 30% of the population), Vesak Day is among the most prominent festivities in SG. Temples in Singapore are decorated with flags and flowers. Buddhists gather at temples before dawn. People raise the Buddhist flag and sing hymns to honor the Buddha, the Dharma, and the Sangha. Devotees bring flowers, candles, and incense and lay offerings to Buddha statues in Singapore. Families are also engaged in performing good deeds on Vesak Day. The celebration culminates with a candlelight parade.

In 2024, the whole of Singapore enjoyed Waisak on May 22. Many Singaporeans and city visitors celebrated this sacred day with Dawn Processions, temple ceremonies, Bathing the Buddha rituals, meditations, acts of charity, and more. Let’s see more details on Vesak activities in The Lion City.

Vesak Day Activities in Singapore

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What to do and where to go on Vesak Day in Singapore? Well, the selection of things to do with your family on Vesak Day in The Lion City is impressive. Traditional ceremonies and rituals in the temples and various family-friendly happenings take place in all parts of the city. Let’s recall some of the exciting and meaningful events that occurred in Singapore on Vesak Day 2024.

Vesak Day 2024 Events in Singapore

• Mass Meditation Blessing For World Peace @ Bukit Gombak Stadium
• MBS Performances @ Singapore Buddhist Federation
• Mindful Blossoms Pre-Vesak 2024 Celebrations @ EtonHouse Nature Pre-School
• Vesak 2024 @ Chui Huay Lim Club
• Vesak Day @ The Buddhist Library
• And other festivals, fairs, masterclasses, entertainment

So let us make a list of activities you should experience with your near and dear ones on Visakha Bucha Day in The Little Red Dot – to get the most out of this authentic celebration!

Visit a Buddhist Temple in Singapore

Buddhist temples in Singapore are undoubtedly the best place to feel the spirit of Vesak Day. Usually, each temple offers its own programme to commemorate Buddha’s birth with traditional rituals and bright festivities for visitors of all ages.

List of Buddhist Temples in Singapore to Visit on Vesak Day:

Buddha Tooth Relic Temple

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No doubt, it is one of the most significant religious sites in Singapore. This magnificent temple is situated in the heart of Chinatown and is home to the sacred Buddha Tooth Relic. Incredible architecture, complete serenity, history, and culture in every detail – this temple is Singapore’s prominent landmark and an ideal place to spend this Vesak Day with your family. Moreover, there is also an inviting museum that keeps numerous fascinating stories and impressive exhibits.

• Location: 288 South Bridge Road, Singapore 058840
• More Details

Burmese Buddhist Temple

It is the oldest Theravada institution and the only Burmese Buddhist temple of its kind in The Lion City. There, you can dive into complete tranquility and admire the largest pure white marble statue of the Buddha outside Myanmar. With its fantastic architecture, intricate decorations, and an inviting indoor area – the Burmese Buddhist Temple is a true gem and a must-visit place to feel the spirit of Vesak Day.

• Location: 14 Tai Gin Rd, Singapore 327873
• More Details

Kong Meng San Phor Kark See Monastery

Image Credit: Kong Meng San Phor Kark See Monastery via Facebook

Welcome to the largest Buddhist temple in Singapore, which is known for its incredible architecture and peaceful atmosphere. There are charming gardens around the temple – a great place to take a leisurely stroll, think about the meaning of life, escape from the bustling city, and enjoy some ‘me time.’

• Location: 88 Bright Hill Road, Singapore 574117
• More Details

Lian Shan Shuang Lin Monastery

Now, let’s explore Singapore’s hidden gem that will impress you with its beauty and tranquility. It is located in Toa Payoh and is one of Singapore’s oldest Buddhist temples. Lian Shan Shuang Lin Monastery is a true architectural masterpiece that keeps a lot of history, culture, and traditions.

• Location: 184 Jalan Toa Payoh, Singapore 319944
• More Details

Sakya Muni Buddha Gaya Temple

It is a beautiful Thai-influenced Buddhist Temple in Singapore. It is one of the city’s most prominent and most visited Buddhist temples and one of the favourite places to celebrate Vesak Day for Singaporeans and city guests. It houses a 300-ton statue of Buddha and boasts amazing architecture and a heartwarming atmosphere. It is one of the most gorgeous temples in The Little Red Dot and an absolute must-visit place for everyone.

• Location: 366 Race Course Rd, Singapore 218638
• More Details

Sri Lankaramaya Buddhist Temple

It is the primary Sri Lanka Buddhist temple of its kind and one of the oldest Theravada Buddhist temples in Singapore. It impresses all visitors with its beautiful architecture, calming vibe, and the massive 45-ft Reclining Buddha statue. Besides, there is a mighty Bodhi tree. It is a welcoming place to celebrate Vesak Day – with charming rituals, beautiful lights, colourful flags, and friendly people around.

• Location: 30C St Michael’s Rd, Singapore 328002

Wat Ananda Metyarama Thai Buddhist Temple

Wat Ananda Metyarama Thai Buddhist Temple at Jalan Bukit Merah is one of the oldest Thai Theravada Buddhist temples in The Little Red Dot. The temple was completed in 1925 and has undergone several renovations since that time. In 2014, the new Temple building was added. It houses Dining Hall, rest area, cultural centre (museum), Meditation Hall, etc. Besides, it serves as a venue for bright events and festivals.

Wat Ananda Metyarama Thai Buddhist Temple is a place where history meets modernity. Perfect for Vesak Day celebrations.

• Location: 50B Jalan Bukit Merah, Singapore 169545
• More Details

Do Good Things

Go volunteer and do good things. Donate money, food, blood, etc. Help those in need on this day (and always). Visit orphanages and elderly homes. Talk to your little ones about the importance of helping each other. Spread your love.

Learn More About Buddha And His Teaching

It is a great chance to expand your horizons and find out more about Buddha and his teachings, which can show you the nature of reality and the path to enlightenment. You can visit various lectures and discussions led by monks in temples and enjoy nice talks with people celebrating Vesak – they have a lot of insights to share.

Enjoy Traditional Music and Dance

We already know that Vesak is about joy. And what joy can be without music and dance? Enjoy traditional music and dance and even learn new movements. Why not? It is an excellent way to dive more into culture and heritage and feel the sense of this celebration even better.

Participate in Bright Vesak Day Festivities in Your Community

A lot of heartwarming Vesak Day-dedicated events take place in various neighborhoods islandwide. After all, this festival is also about community and unity. Cultural entertainment, lively fairs, lantern festivals, and other festivities – follow your community’s announcements and be sure to join colourful Waisak celebration with your family.

Enjoy Family-Friendly Vesak Day Activities in Singapore

Spend this day with your little explorers and discoverers. Watch bright performances, participate in engaging masterclasses, attend mass meditation, etc. Try something new at family yoga sessions. Visit Vesak Vegetarian Food Fairs. By the way, why don’t you try to prepare some vegetarian dishes to celebrate this day at home?

Vesak Day 2025 in Singapore

When is Vesak Day in Singapore in 2025? Vesak Day celebration in Singapore in 2025 falls on May 12. Yes, there are still a couple of months till this holy day. But it is never too early to begin to prepare Happy Vesak Day 2025 wishes and greetings for your family and friends, right?

Traditionally, The Lion City’s Buddhist temples will be the main place to celebrate the life and teachings of the Buddha. Besides, many bright and exciting family-friendly events will take place islandwide. So stay tuned and follow the announcements!

Have a blessed Vesak Day!

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