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Wesak

A calendar with a shape over 12 May that reads
  • Written byStudent Communications
  • Published date 08 May 2025
A calendar with a shape over 12 May that reads
UAL Community Calendar | UAL Creative

Wesak, also spelled Vesak or known as Buddha Day, takes place on Monday 12 May this year. Happy Wesak to those who will be celebrating!

What is Wesak?

Wesak is one of the most significant festivals in the Buddhist calendar, commemorating the birth, enlightenment (Nirvana), and death (Parinirvana) of Gautama Buddha. It is a time for Buddhist's to reflect on Buddha's teachings and serves as a reminder of the potential for enlightenment within all beings. The festival promotes Buddhist values of peace, compassion, and goodwill.

How is Wesak celebrated?

Wesak is celebrated with various rituals and activities. Buddhists may visit temples for prayer and meditation. Acts of generosity, such as giving alms to monks and donating to the less fortunate, are also common. Symbolic rituals like "bathing the Buddha" and lighting lanterns may also be performed to signify purification and enlightenment.

Celebrating at UAL

There are several student societies at UAL who may be celebrating Wesak:

Resources