Sri Lanka, the vibrant tiny island in the Indian Ocean, is a land where faith, tradition, and culture blend seamlessly. Many factors showcase this significance to the whole world. Among them, one of the most highlighted is the important events, and special days in Sri Lanka. In fact, its calendar is filled with religious festivals, cultural events, and national holidays that reveal diversity of the island’s communities. For locals, these occasions are moments of spiritual reflection and family togetherness. For travelers, they are opportunities to experience the vibrant culture of Sri Lanka. So, why not? Let us get to know more about these wonderful, important events and special days in Sri Lanka.
What are the Important Events and Special Days in Sri Lanka?
Here is how the important events and special days for the year 2025 are lined up!
| Special Event | Day of Celebration in 2025 |
| New Year’s Dawn | Wednesday, 1 January 2025 |
| Duruthu Full Moon Poya Day | Monday, 13 January 2025 |
| Thai Pongal (Tamil Pongal) | Tuesday, 14 January 2025 |
| Independence Day (National Day) | Tuesday, 4 February 2025 |
| Navam Full Moon Poya Day | Wednesday, 12 February 2025 |
| Maha Shivaratri Day | Wednesday, 26 February 2025 |
| Madin Full Moon Poya Day | Thursday, 13 March 2025 |
| Eid al-Fitr (Ramazan Festival Day) | Monday, 31 March 2025 |
| Bak Full Moon Poya Day | Saturday, 12 April 2025 |
| Sinhala & Tamil New Year | Sunday–Monday, 13–14 April 2025 |
| Good Friday | Friday, 18 April 2025 |
| May Day (International Workers’ Day) | Thursday, 1 May 2025 |
| Vesak Full Moon Poya Day | Monday, 12 May 2025 |
| Day following Vesak Full Moon Poya Day | Tuesday, 13 May 2025 |
| Eid al-Adha (Hadji Festival Day) | Saturday, 7 June 2025 |
| Poson Full Moon Poya Day | Tuesday, 10 June 2025 |
| Esala Full Moon Poya Day | Thursday, 10 July 2025 |
| Nikini Full Moon Poya Day | Friday, 8 August 2025 |
| Milad-un-Nabi (Holy Prophet’s Birthday) | Friday, 5 September 2025 |
| Binara Full Moon Poya Day | Sunday, 7 September 2025 |
| Vap Full Moon Poya Day | Monday, 6 October 2025 |
| Deepavali Festival Day (Diwali) | Monday, 20 October 2025 |
| Ill Full Moon Poya Day | Wednesday, 5 November 2025 |
| Unduvap Full Moon Poya Day | Thursday, 4 December 2025 |
| Christmas Day | Thursday, 25 December 2025 |
Here is a detailed guide to the important events and special days in Sri Lanka in 2025, month by month!
Important Events and Special Days in January 2025
The first month of 2025 begins with fresh energy and hope. In fact, January brings meaningful celebrations that set the tone for the year ahead. Important days and special events in January 2025 are as follows.
New Year’s Day – 1st January 2025
Like much of the world, Sri Lanka welcomes the new year on 1st January with joy and optimism. Families prepare traditional food such as kiribath to symbolize prosperity, and many visit temples or churches to receive blessings. While the Sinhala and Tamil New Year comes in April, January 1st still marks a fresh start for Sri Lankans.
Duruthu Full Moon Poya Day – 13th January 2025
Duruthu Poya holds a very special place in Sri Lanka’s Buddhist calendar. It commemorates the Buddha’s first visit to the island, more than 2,500 years ago, to the sacred site of Mahiyangana. This visit was aimed at bringing peace to the land, which at the time was inhabited by the Yakkha tribes. As per history, during this visit, the Buddha preached the Dhamma, and his words inspired harmony among the people.
Every year, devotees mark this day with deep reverence. In fact, thousands travel to Mahiyangana Raja Maha Vihara, one of the oldest Buddhist temples in the country. Apart from that, the temples across the island conduct all-night chanting (pirith), and sil programs, where devotees observe the Eight Precepts for a day of discipline.
For visitors, Duruthu Poya is a chance to witness the quiet power of Buddhist devotion. Unlike the colorful celebrations of Vesak, Duruthu is more solemn, filled with meditation, and chanting that echo through the night.
After all, Duruthu Poya is not just about conducting rituals, but a reminder of Sri Lanka’s identity as a Buddhist nation, the teachings of compassion, peace, and unity.
Thai Pongal – 15th January 2025
After Duruthu, Sri Lanka bursts into color with Thai Pongal. It is the Tamil harvest festival that honors the Sun God (Surya), nature, and the cattle that support farming life. In simple terms, Pongal is both a spiritual offering and a joyful thanksgiving. Mostly, the Northern and Eastern provinces are well-known for Thai Pongal celebrations. However, Tamil homes across the island too celebrate this festival with much happiness.
The most iconic part of the day is the boiling of milk and rice in a clay pot. Families let the pot overflow, which is a symbol of abundance and prosperity, before mixing in jaggery, ghee, and cashews to prepare the sweet dish called Pongal. The first spoonful of this Pongal dish is offered to the Sun in gratitude, followed by sharing it with neighbors and relatives.
Tamils decorate their homes with kolam, intricate patterns made of rice flour, welcoming prosperity and driving away negativity during this season. Cattle, revered for their role in agriculture, are washed, painted with turmeric, and adorned with garlands. Hindu Kovils hold special pujas, filling the air with the sound of bells and devotional songs.
For many Tamils, Pongal also marks the start of the month of Thai, which is believed to be auspicious for new beginnings, marriages, and community celebrations. With all these factors, this festival happens to be both deeply spiritual and warmly communal, as it is a time when families reunite, share meals, and celebrate the blessings of nature.
For travelers, Thai Pongal is an explosion of sights, smells, and sounds, from the fragrance of boiling milk to the colorful kolam on the ground, and from the joyous temple bells to the laughter of families gathered together.
Important Events and Special Days in February 2025
Though short in length, February 2025 carries important days of pride and devotion for Sri Lankans. Continue reading to know about them!
Independence Day – 4th February 2025
Every year, on 4th February, Sri Lanka proudly raises its national flag to mark Independence Day, celebrating the moment in 1948 when the nation broke free from British Colonial Rule. In 2025, the island commemorates 77 years of independence, a milestone that blends patriotism, reflection, and cultural pride.
Usually, the official celebration of Independence takes place in Colombo with a grand parade featuring the armed forces, cultural troupes, and schoolchildren. Soldiers march in step, traditional dancers whirl in rhythm, and the air reverberates with the sound of drums, conch shells, and military bands. The President of Sri Lanka delivers a national address, often reflecting on the country’s struggles, triumphs, and hopes for the future.
Beyond the official ceremonies, Independence Day is felt in every village and town. Schools and local councils organize flag-hoisting events. Meanwhile families gather to listen to patriotic songs that the television and radio channels broadcast. It is a time of unity, where people remember the sacrifices of past generations and renew their hopes for peace and progress.
The national flag, with its lion holding a sword, and the stripes representing Sinhalese, Tamils, Muslims, and other communities, becomes a powerful symbol, specially during this season. Streets, schools, and government offices proudly display it, reminding everyone that independence belongs to all.
For visitors, Independence Day offers a vivid glimpse into Sri Lanka’s identity, a nation shaped by history but always striving for harmony and resilience.
Navam Full Moon Poya Day – 12th February 2025
Just a week after Independence Day, the spiritual rhythm of Sri Lanka returns with Navam Poya, one of the most significant Buddhist full moon days. This day commemorates two key events in the Buddhist tradition. They are as follows.
- The appointment of Sariputta and Moggallana as the Buddha’s chief disciples, known for their wisdom and spiritual strength.
- The first Buddhist Congregation, which laid the foundation for the organized spread of the Dhamma.
In Colombo, Navam Poya is especially famous for the Navam Perahera organized by the Gangaramaya Temple. Over two nights, the city transforms into a cultural spectacle: caparisoned elephants carrying relic caskets, whip-crackers leading the way, kandyan drummers setting the beat, and dancers swirling in colorful traditional attire. The streets glow with flaming torches, and thousands of spectators, both local and foreign, line up to watch it.
However, beneath the pageantry lies the quiet spiritual essence of the day. Thus, temples across the island hold sil programs, encouraging lay Buddhists to observe the Eight Precepts, meditate, and reflect on discipline.
For a traveler, witnessing Navam Poya means seeing Sri Lanka at its most vibrant and sacred, a blend of devotion, art, and community spirit.
Maha Shivaratri – 26th February 2025
Maha Shivaratri, known as the Great Night of Shiva, is one of the most sacred festivals for Hindus across Sri Lanka. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva, the deity of transformation, destruction of evil, and cosmic renewal. Falling on the darkest night of the lunar month, it symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and wisdom over ignorance.
On this night, Hindu devotees fast during the day and stay awake all night in temples, chanting “Om Namah Shivaya” and singing devotional hymns. Lamps are lit, incense fills the air, and the sound of bells echoes through temple courtyards. Accordingly, the atmosphere is charged with both energy and serenity.
Some of the most prominent celebrations take place at Koneswaram Temple in Trincomalee and Munneswaram Temple in Chilaw. Both are ancient shrines dedicated to Shiva. Pilgrims gather here, offering fruits, flowers, and especially the sacred bael leaves, which are believed to be dear to Lord Shiva. Priests perform special abhishekam with water, milk, honey, and sandalwood paste, symbolizing purification and devotion.
Maha Shivaratri is also seen as a time for personal reflection. Couples pray for marital harmony, young people seek blessings for a happy future, and farmers ask for good rains and fertility of the land. For many Hindus, observing this festival with faith ensures peace, prosperity, and spiritual growth.
Important Events and Special Days in March 2025
March 2025 is centered around spiritual reflection as it holds only two special days, both with religious values. Continue reading to know what they are!
Madin Full Moon Poya Day – 13th March 2025
Madin Poya marks a historic moment in the Buddha’s life: his first visit to his hometown of Kapilavastu after attaining Enlightenment. On this journey, he met his father, King Suddhodana, and preached the Dhamma to his family. Most importantly, it was on this occasion that his young son, Prince Rahula, was ordained as the first novice monk.
For Buddhists, this story highlights the Buddha’s teaching that spiritual truth transcends worldly attachments. Parents and children who attend temples on this day often reflect on the balance between family duties and spiritual growth.
In temples, sermons and chanting sessions focus on themes of parental love, and renunciation. Families dress in white, spend the day in meditation, and participate in sil programs. Children are also encouraged to learn about Rahula’s ordination, making Madin Poya a day that connects generations.
Eid al-Fitr – 31st March 2025
As the holy month of Ramadan ends, Muslims in Sri Lanka celebrate Eid al-Fitr, also known as the “Festival of Breaking the Fast.” It is a day filled with joy, gratitude, and community spirit.
Day begins with special prayers, where families gather dressed in their finest clothes, often white or pastel shades symbolizing purity. Before the prayers, Muslims give Zakat al-Fitr, a charitable donation to ensure that even the less fortunate can celebrate the festival.
After prayers, families visit relatives and neighbors, exchanging greetings of “Eid Mubarak”. Homes are filled with the aroma of delicious cultural dishes, from biryani and mutton curry to the much-loved dessert watalappan. Children receive gifts and money known as Eidi, adding to the joy of the day.
In multicultural areas like Colombo, Kandy, and Galle, non-Muslim friends and neighbors’ are often invited to share meals, making Eid a festival of togetherness across communities. For a visitor, Eid in Sri Lanka is not just about food or festivity, but about experiencing the warmth of a community that values compassion, family bonds, and hospitality.
Important Events and Special Days in Sri Lanka in April 2025
April is one of the most festive months in Sri Lanka, bringing together cultural tradition, religious devotion, and family celebration with Avurudu at its heart. Continue reading to know about the festivity of this glamorous month!
Bak Full Moon Poya Day – 12th April 2025
Bak Poya is a day that blends history, peace, and reflection. According to Buddhist chronicles, it was during this full moon that the Buddha visited Sri Lanka for the second time, traveling to Nagadeepa in the north. At that time, two Naga kings were on the verge of war over a jeweled throne. The Buddha intervened, preached compassion and reconciliation, and brought peace between the rulers.
Because of this, Bak Poya is often remembered as a day that highlights non-violence and harmony. Devotees flock to the Nagadeepa Raja Maha Vihara in Jaffna, which is considered one of the most sacred Buddhist sites on the island. Pilgrims carry flowers, light oil lamps, and reflect on the message of forgiveness.
Sinhala and Tamil New Year – 13th & 14th April 2025
If there is one festival that truly unites Sri Lanka, it is the Sinhala and Tamil New Year. Falling in mid-April, this celebration marks the end of the harvest season and the sun’s movement into the zodiac sign of Aries. More than a date on the calendar, it is the heartbeat of Sri Lankan culture.
The days leading up to the New Year are filled with excitement. People clean and paint their homes, stock their kitchens with sweets, and families prepare for a fresh start. When the auspicious time arrives, families light the hearth and boil milk in a clay pot, letting it spill over as a symbol of prosperity. The aroma of kiribath (milk rice) fills the home, served alongside sweetmeats like kokis, aluwa, mung kevum, and kavum.
This festival is not just about rituals, but also about community and joy. Children play Avurudu games like pillow fights, pancha damima (a traditional dice game), and olinda keliya (a bead game). Villages organize friendly competitions, from tug-of-war to climbing the greased pole, drawing laughter and cheer. Families exchange gifts, visit relatives, and strengthen bonds of friendship and kinship.
For Tamils, Puthandu is celebrated with prayers at Hindu temples. They make offerings of fruits and flowers, and the preparation of sweet dishes like pongal. Just like the Sinhala celebrations, it is rooted in gratitude, renewal, and community.
After all, whether you are in a bustling city or a quiet village, the New Year in Sri Lanka is an explosion of color, sound, and togetherness. Firecrackers crackle, temple bells ring, and the whole island seems to pause and celebrate life.
Good Friday – 18th April 2025
Christians in Sri Lanka observe Good Friday, a solemn day marking the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. Churches across the island hold services that are quiet, reflective, and filled with prayer. Many congregations reenact the Way of the Cross, a moving ritual that recalls Christ’s final journey to Calvary.
The atmosphere is deeply spiritual. Worshippers’ light candles, sing hymns, and reflect on themes of sacrifice and forgiveness. Families often spend the day in prayer and fasting, preparing themselves for the joy of Easter Sunday that follows.
For non-Christians, attending a Good Friday service can be a humbling experience.
Important Events and Special Days in Sri Lanka in May 2025
May 2025 shines with light and meaning, from honoring workers on May Day to celebrating Vesak. Scroll down to get to know more about them!
May Day – 1st May 2025
On the first day of May, the island pauses to honors its workers. May Day, also known as International Workers’ Day, is a time when labor unions and communities gather to celebrate rights, dignity, and solidarity.
In Colombo, colorful parades fill the streets. Trade unions carry banners, workers chant slogans, and bands march to the rhythm of drums. This day has a political side too, with parties holding rallies. Yet at its core, it is about recognizing the hands that build the nation.
Outside the cities, May Day is more personal. Schools and organizations host small gatherings, and they show a general sense of gratitude toward those who toil daily in fields, factories, and offices. After all, it is a day that reminds Sri Lankans of the value of hard work and the dignity that comes with it.
For a visitor, May Day offers a vibrant glimpse into the energy of Sri Lanka’s people – passionate, united, and unafraid to raise their voices for justice.
Vesak Full Moon Poya Day – 12th May 2025
If there is one celebration that defines Buddhism in Sri Lanka, it is Vesak. Falling on the full moon of May, this day marks the triple events in the life of the Buddha, his birth, his Enlightenment under the Bodhi tree, and his passing into Parinirvana. For Buddhists, it is the holiest day of the year, and for the country, it transforms into a festival of light, compassion, and community.
As dusk falls, the island glows on this day. A common sight is the vesak lanterns, handmade from bamboo and paper, hanging in front of homes and along streets. Some are simple stars; others are elaborate works of art, glowing in every color imaginable. Apart from that, Vesak pandals, the giant illuminated panels, are also a common sight during this season. They tell stories from the Jataka tales, the Buddha’s past lives, through intricate paintings and moving lights.
Temples overflow with devotees dressed in white, carrying flowers and oil lamps. Many choose to spend the day in sil programs, observing precepts, meditating, and listening to sermons. At night, the air is filled with the sound of chanting, drums, and the quiet hum of pilgrims moving from shrine to shrine.
Besides, Vesak is not just about rituals; it is also about generosity. Across the island, people set up dansalas, free food stalls that offer rice, curry, tea, and even ice cream to anyone who passes by. Rich or poor, Buddhist or non-Buddhist, everyone is welcome. It is a living reminder of the Buddha’s teaching on compassion and kindness.
For travelers, Vesak is an unforgettable sight. Walking down a lantern-lit streets, while monks chant in temples, and families share food with strangers — it feels like stepping into a world where faith and community come alive.
Important Events and Special Days in Sri Lanka in June 2025
June is a month of faith and heritage in Sri Lanka. It is highlighted by Eid al-Adha and the historic Poson Poya day.
Eid al-Adha – 7th June 2025
Known as the Festival of Sacrifice, Eid al-Adha is one of the most important Islamic celebrations in Sri Lanka. It commemorates the story of Prophet Ibrahim’s devotion, when he was willing to sacrifice his son in obedience to God.
On this day, Muslims gather early in the morning for special prayers at mosques. Men, women, and children wear their best clothes, often in shades of white to symbolize purity. After prayers, families embrace one another, exchange greetings of “Eid Mubarak”, and share meals together.
The central ritual of the day is the Qurbani (sacrifice of an animal, usually a cow or goat). They divide this meat into three portions, one for the family, one for relatives and friends, and one for the poor. This act of sharing reflects the festival’s deeper meaning: compassion, community, and equality.
In Sri Lanka, Eid al-Adha also has a warm social spirit. Families open their doors to neighbors, regardless of faith, offering delicious dishes like biryani, mutton curry, and sweet watalappam. Streets come alive with visitors moving between homes, while shops and markets buzz with festive energy.
For visitors, experiencing Eid al-Adha is to witness the beauty of generosity, an island community that celebrates faith not just with rituals, but with open hearts.
Poson Full Moon Poya Day – 10th June 2025
If Vesak is the most celebrated Poya in Sri Lanka, Poson comes a close second. It marks the arrival of Arahat Mahinda, the son of Emperor Ashoka of India, who brought Buddhism to Sri Lanka over 2,300 years ago. His meeting with King Devanampiyatissa at Mihintale changed the island forever, establishing Buddhism as a cornerstone of Sri Lankan identity.
To this day, Mihintale rock becomes the heart of Poson celebrations. Pilgrims dressed in pure white climb the steps of the ancient monastery, carrying flowers, oil lamps, and incense. This sacred site glows at night, with thousands of devotees meditating and chanting under the full moon.
Across the island, villages organize dansalas, offering free meals, tea, and even traditional sweets to passersby. Roads fill with people walking from temple to temple, their calm faces reflecting devotion.
Besides, Poson is more than just a religious day; it serves as a reminder of how faith can shape a nation’s culture and values. The story of Arahat Mahinda speaking to King Devanampiyatissa about the sacredness of all living beings still resonates in modern Sri Lanka, especially at a time when harmony with nature is so important.
For a traveler, Poson offers an unforgettable experience, a mix of solemnity, history, and community spirit. Watching pilgrims climb Mihintale by lantern light, hearing the gentle chanting carried by the wind, and sharing a simple meal at a roadside dansala makes you feel part of something timeless and profound.
Important Events and Special Days in Sri Lanka in July 2025
July 2025 blends quiet devotion with vibrant culture, as Esala Poya and the grand Kandy Esala Perahera take center stage.
Esala Full Moon Poya Day– 10th July 2025
Esala Poya is a day rich with meaning in the Buddhist world. It marks the occasion when the Buddha delivered his very first sermon, the Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta, in Sarnath, India. In that sermon, he revealed the Four Noble Truths and the Noble Eightfold Path, laying down the foundation of Buddhism as a practical way of life.
For Sri Lankan Buddhists, this Poya is a reminder of beginnings, not just the Buddha’s first teaching, but also the importance of seeking truth and wisdom in everyday life. Devotees flock to temples, dressed in white, to offer flowers and light oil lamps. The sermons on Esala Poya focus on mindfulness, compassion, and moral discipline, encouraging people to renew their practice of the Dhamma.
Apart from that, Esala Poya also has a relation to another tradition: the start of the Kandy Esala Perahera, one of the most spectacular festivals in Asia.
The Kandy Esala Perahera – July/August 2025
The Kandy Esala Perahera is not just a festival. It is a living pageant of Sri Lanka’s culture, history, and devotion. For ten nights, the streets of Kandy come alive with processions held in honor of the Sacred Tooth Relic of the Buddha, enshrined in the Temple of the Tooth (Sri Dalada Maligawa).
The atmosphere of Esala Perahera is unforgettable. Towering elephants draped in glittering garments walk gracefully through torch-lit streets. The ‘Maligawa Tusker’, carrying the golden casket said to contain the Relic, moves slowly and majestically, surrounded by monks chanting prayers.
Behind them, hundreds of performers fill the streets. Among them the most significant are the Kandyan drummers beating hypnotic rhythms, traditional dancers leaping and spinning with vibrant energy, whip-crackers cracking the air to announce each segment of the parade, and the torchbearers lighting the night with fire.
With all these highlights, the Perahera is more than a visual feast. It is a symbol of faith and continuity. For centuries, this festival has been held to request for rains, prosperity, and blessings for the land. Today, it continues as a unifying event, drawing thousands of pilgrims and tourists from around the world.
For a visitor, standing on the streets of Kandy during the Perahera is nothing short of magical.
Important Events and Special Days in Sri Lanka in August 2025
August is a calmer month, marked mainly by Nikini Poya, a time of reflection and spiritual discipline.
Nikini Full Moon Poya Day – 8th August 2025
Nikini Poya doesn’t have the colorful lanterns of Vesak or the grandeur of the Esala Perahera. Yet, its quietness carries a special beauty. This full moon marks the time when the first ‘Dhamma Sangayana’ (Buddhist Council) was held after the passing away of the Buddha. At this gathering, 500 enlightened monks came together to preserve and recite the teachings, ensuring that the Dhamma would survive through generations.
For Buddhists in Sri Lanka, this Poya is associated with discipline and purity. Many temples encourage lay devotees to observe the Eight Precepts, spending the day in meditation, listening to sermons, and practicing mindfulness. It is also a time when monks reflect on their vows and responsibilities, continuing a tradition of sincerity that has lasted for centuries.
Another significant aspect of Nikini is its connection to the ‘Vassa‘ season, or the rainy retreat. Traditionally, monks spend three months in one monastery, dedicating themselves to study and meditation. Nikini marks the formal start of this retreat, making it an important time for both monks and laypeople to deepen their practice.
Accordingly, the atmosphere across the island feels calmer during this Poya day. Soft chanting fill the temple premises, families sit quietly under Bodhi trees, and the night sky glows with the silvery light of the full moon. Unlike festivals that draw big crowds, Nikini invites stillness and self-reflection.
For a visitor, experiencing Nikini Poya offers a glimpse into the quiet soul of Sri Lankan Buddhism. It shows that devotion here is not always about grandeur, sometimes, it is about silence, meditation, and the gentle rhythm of prayers carried into the night.
Important Events and Special Days in September 2025
September 2025 carries both Buddhist and Islamic significance, with Binara Poya honoring the Bhikkhuni Order and Milad-un-Nabi celebrating the Prophet’s birth.
Milad-un-Nabi – 5th September 2025
Milad-un-Nabi — the celebration of the Prophet Muhammad’s birth, is a day of reverence, remembrance, and connection in the Muslim community of Sri Lanka. Though it is a single day, its spiritual impact often extends into communal gatherings, evening sermons, and moments of reflection.
On 5th September 2025, mosques across the island open their doors for special congregational prayers, recitations from the Qur’an, and sermons about the Prophet’s life and character. Devotees sometimes decorate mosques and homes with green flags or lights and share sweets or small gifts with neighbors. Many also perform acts of charity, distributing food or essentials to those in need.
This celebration is less about external display and more about internal renewal, about embodying compassion, patience, and service in daily life. Hence, for non-Muslim visitors, it is a chance to see how faith is lived quietly but deeply, and how communities gather in humility and purpose.
Binara Full Moon Poya Day – 7th September 2025
Binara Poya is a deeply meaningful day in the Buddhist tradition. It commemorates the establishment of the Bhikkhuni Sangha, the order of Buddhist nuns, during the time of the Buddha. In fact, on this day, Mahapajapati Gotami, the Buddha’s foster mother, together with 500 noblewomen, received ordination, creating a legacy of women’s role in preserving and spreading the Dhamma.
Buddhists across Sri Lanka celebrate Binara Poya with gratitude and respect for the women who have carried forward the teachings of the Buddha. On this day, sermons often highlight the importance of compassion, discipline, and service, qualities associated with the Bhikkhuni Order.
For many lay devotees, Binara Poya is a day to reflect on the power of inclusivity in spiritual practice. Sermons emphasize that the path to enlightenment is open to all, regardless of gender or background.
The mood of Binara Poya is gentle yet inspiring. Temples host Bodhi poojas, monks deliver discourses about the equality of all beings, and women devotees often take a special lead in organizing ceremonies. In some parts of the country, stories of Mahapajapati Gotami are retold to younger generations, reinforcing the role of women in faith and community life.
For a traveler, Binara Poya reveals the quieter, thoughtful side of Buddhism, one that honors history, equality, and the strength of women in shaping the spiritual life of the island.
Important Events and Special Days in Sri Lanka in October 2025
October brightens with gratitude and light, with Vap Poya’s robe-offering traditions and Deepavali’s joyful festival of lamps.
Vap Full Moon Poya Day – 6th October 2025
Vap Poya is a deeply symbolic day in Sri Lanka’s Buddhist calendar. It marks the offering of robes to monks at the end of the three-month ‘Vassana‘ retreat (the rainy season retreat), in which the monks remain in their temples or monasteries, devoting themselves to study, meditation, and discipline.
Accordingly, on this Vap Poya day, lay devotees express their gratitude by participating in Katina Ceremonies. In line with this, colorful processions take place in villages, where devotees carry the new robes with reverence, often accompanied by drumming, chanting, and music. It is a time when families come together, not only to give material support but also to reflect on generosity (dana) as a central Buddhist virtue. Usually, they end with faithful offerings to the Sangha. These robes, known as Katina Cheevara hold a special place among these offerings as they symbolize unity and the bond between monks and lay communities.
The quiet beauty of Vap Poya lies in its focus on gratitude, simplicity, and renewal. It reminds Buddhists that faith is not only about personal meditation but also about strengthening community bonds through giving.
For visitors, Vap Poya is an opportunity to experience the more serene side of Buddhist tradition, with less spectacle and more sincerity. Watching villagers prepare robes late into the night or seeing a dawn procession carrying offerings to the temple, signifies a touching glimpse of devotion in everyday life.
Deepavali – 20th October 2025
Just two weeks after Vap Poya, Sri Lanka lights up with Deepavali (Diwali), the Hindu festival of lights. For Hindus, Deepavali celebrates the triumph of good over evil, light over darkness, and knowledge over ignorance.
During Diwali season, Hindus clean their homes and decorate them with oil lamps (vilakku) placed in rows at doorsteps and windows. The warm glow of the lamps creates a magical atmosphere, symbolizing the inner light that protects against darkness. Moreover, families prepare delicious sweets such as laddu, mysore pak, and kesari, while Hindu shrines host special pujas in honor of Goddess Lakshmi, the bringer of wealth and prosperity.
Children are the heart of Deepavali celebrations. In fact, they wear new clothes, light sparklers, and set off firecrackers that crackle joyfully into the night sky. Relatives visit each other, exchanging sweets and gifts, while elders bless the young with wishes for prosperity and happiness.
In areas like Jaffna, Trincomalee, Batticaloa, and Colombo’s Wellawatte, the streets come alive with lights, markets, and festive energy. Even non-Hindu neighbours join in, sharing food and greetings, making Deepavali a celebration of community harmony as much as religion.
For a visitor, being in Sri Lanka during Deepavali is a heartwarming experience. The glow of lamps, the smell of sweets cooking, the sound of fireworks, and the laughter of families all create an atmosphere of joy and hope, a celebration that speaks across cultures and faiths.
Important Events and Special Days in November 2025
November 2025 is a month of remembrance, with Ill Poya honoring Prince Mahinda’s ordination and Sanghamitta Theri’s legacy.
Ill Full Moon Poya Day – 5th November 2025
Ill Poya is one of the most historically rich and spiritually meaningful days in Sri Lanka’s Buddhist calendar. It commemorates two significant events as follows.
- The Ordination of Prince Mahinda
- Prince Mahinda is the son of Emperor Ashoka of India. This prince, who later became Arhat Mahinda, was the person who later traveled to Sri Lanka and introduced Buddhism to the island. Buddhists remember his ordination on Ill Poya as a pivotal moment in the spread of the Dhamma.
- The Passing Away of Sanghamitta Theri
- Sangamitta Theri is the revered nun who brought the sapling of the Bodhi Tree from India to Sri Lanka. This sacred tree, planted in Anuradhapura, remains one of the most important symbols of Buddhism in the country. Buddhists remember his passing away on the Ill Poya day.
Across Sri Lanka, temples hold special Bodhi poojas, where devotees gather around the sacred Bodhi trees to light oil lamps, offer flowers, and chant protective stanzas. The air is rich with the fragrance of incense and the quiet hum of prayers, creating a deeply moving atmosphere.
Ill Poya is also a time for reflection on the role of sacrifice and service in Buddhism. Prince Mahinda left behind royal life to dedicate himself to the Dhamma, while Sanghamitta Theri undertook a long and challenging journey to bring the Bodhi sapling to Sri Lanka. Their legacies remind Buddhists that great change often requires selflessness and courage.
Important Events and Special Days in Sri Lanka in December 2025
The final month of the year is both reflective and festive. Continue reading to know why it is so!
Unduvap Full Moon Poya Day – 4th December 2025
Unduvap Poya is one of the most important days in Sri Lanka’s Buddhist calendar because it commemorates the arrival of Sanghamitta Theri, the daughter of Emperor Ashoka of India. She travelled to Sri Lanka more than 2,000 years ago with a precious gift, a sapling from the sacred Bodhi Tree under which the Buddha attained Enlightenment.
This sapling was planted in Anuradhapura and became the Sri Maha Bodhi, the oldest historically documented tree in the world. For Buddhists, it is more than just a tree; it is a living symbol of wisdom, compassion, and the island’s deep ties to the Buddha’s teaching.
On Unduvap Poya, thousands of pilgrims make their way to Anuradhapura. Families dressed in white carry lotus flowers and oil lamps, circling the Sri Maha Bodhi in silent devotion. Temples across the country also organize Bodhi poojas, meditation sessions, and all-night chanting (pirith) to honor the legacy of Sanghamitta Theri.
This day also highlights the important role women have played in Buddhism. Sanghamitta Theri not only brought the sacred sapling but also helped establish the Bhikkhuni Sangha, the order of Buddhist nuns in Sri Lanka, giving women a respected place in religious life.
After all, for visitors, being near the Sri Maha Bodhi during Unduvap Poya is unforgettable. The sight of thousands of glowing lamps under the full moon, the rustle of Bodhi leaves in the night air, and the chants echoing in unison create a spiritual atmosphere that lingers long after the day ends.
Christmas Day – 25th December 2025
Just a few weeks after Unduvap Poya, Sri Lanka celebrates Christmas, bringing joy and festivity to Christian communities and beyond. While Christians mark the day as the birth of Jesus Christ, the celebration has become a season of warmth and generosity shared across faiths.
Churches across the island hold midnight Mass on Christmas Eve, where worshippers gather for prayer, hymns, and candlelight services. Bells ring out at dawn on Christmas morning, filling towns like Negombo, and Colombo with festive cheer.
Christian families decorate their homes with Christmas trees, twinkling lights, and nativity scenes. Children eagerly wait for gifts from “Santa Claus,” while families prepare feasts with roast chicken, Christmas cake, love cake, and milk wine. Streets become festive as the shops play carols, while hotels and public spaces sparkle with festive décor.
However, beyond the food and lights, Christmas in Sri Lanka emphasizes togetherness and kindness. Families visit neighbors, regardless of religion, to share sweets and greetings. Acts of charity are common, with churches and community groups reaching out to the poor, the elderly, and children in need.
For visitors, Christmas in Sri Lanka is a heartwarming experience, a celebration that blends devotion and festivity. Whether attending midnight Mass in a centuries-old church or walking down a street glowing with decorations, you can feel the spirit of joy and generosity everywhere.
Conclusion
Sri Lanka’s calendar in 2025 is not just a series of dates; it is a living story of devotion, culture, and unity. Each month unfolds with its own rhythm, from the quiet meditations of Poya days to the dazzling processions of the Esala Perahera, from the warmth of Sinhala and Tamil New Year gatherings to the glow of Deepavali and Christmas lights.
For Sri Lankans, these occasions are reminders of who they are: a people bound together by faith, resilience, and joy. For travelers, they offer a chance to step into traditions that have been nurtured for centuries, to share in food, music, and rituals that speak across religions and communities.
As 2025 unfolds, the island will once again show that celebration here is not about grandness alone, but about meaning, about families gathering, neighbors sharing, and people remembering their roots. Truly, Sri Lanka’s year is one of faith, light, and celebration. So, don’t forget to experience the glamour of these festivals, while you are in Sri Lanka. Happy and safe travelling!
