The Buddhist religion is prevalent in Asia, including in Viet Nam where around 50% of the population is Buddhist.  Therefore, Buddha’s Birthday Festival is a festival of immense importance. It is said that on this day he achieved enlightenment.

(photo: hoian-tourism.com)

Also known as Vesak Day, it is celebrated on the 15^th day of the 4^th lunar month (13 May in 2014), and prayers and offerings are made all over Viet Nam.  Followers gather in front of pagodas to observe religious rites and listen to the Vesak message, as well as to the speech given by the head monk of the pagoda. Afterwards they offer free food and gifts to the children and the needy.

When night falls, the atmosphere of the festival gets even more exciting, with parades along main streets.  Animals are set free, and flower garlands and coloured lanterns are floated on rivers in order to help the wandering souls of people who have drowned.

In Indonesia and Thailand, celebrations are held on the night of the May full moon, but it is advisable for tourists to visit the temple for the festival a little earlier in Viet Nam.