Vesak Day

Singapore’s Grand Buddhist Festival of Light, Lotus, and Compassion

2026/05/14

Every May, Singapore’s temples and neighborhoods are filled with sacred light and prayer for Vesak Day, the most important Buddhist festival marking the birth, enlightenment, and passing of the Buddha. On this day, not only Buddhists but also many locals and travelers gather at temples seeking peace, kindness, and spiritual renewal. From early morning chanting to evening lantern processions, Vesak Day is a unique opportunity to experience Singapore’s living Buddhist culture.

Saffron-robed monks, the gentle sound of chanting, the scent of incense and lotus flowers, and the soft glow of thousands of candles set the scene. The cool stone floors of temples, the gentle taste of vegetarian food, the tactile act of bathing Buddha statues, and the hope and renewal symbolized by releasing birds and fish—all make Vesak Day a festival of “tranquility and compassion” for all five senses in the heart of the city.

Main Attractions

Early Morning Chanting & Prayers

At temples such as the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Shuang Lin Monastery, monks and devotees gather before dawn for chanting, meditation, and the sound of bells. The golden light of sunrise and the peaceful atmosphere offer a cleansing, spiritual start to the day.

Buddha Bathing Ritual

One of Vesak Day’s most iconic rituals is the bathing of baby Buddha statues. Devotees pour fragrant water over the statues, wishing for purification of mind and life. The scent of jasmine, floating petals, and the feel of water evoke a sense of spiritual rebirth.

Lamp Lighting & Lantern Processions

As night falls, temples and streets are illuminated by countless lamps and lanterns. Devotees and citizens light candles and join lantern processions, creating a quiet yet overwhelming beauty. In Chinatown, hundreds of lanterns may be released, creating a river of light.

Charity & Offerings

Vesak Day is also a day of good deeds. Acts of compassion such as releasing birds and fish, temple food distributions, donations, and blood drives are held throughout the city. Around temples, vegetarian bee hoon, curry vegetables, and rice cakes are served free to all visitors.

Cultural and Historical Background

The history of Vesak Day in Singapore dates back to the late 19th century, when immigrants from China, Thailand, and Sri Lanka established their own Buddhist temples. In the early days, Buddhist events were quietly celebrated within their own communities at Chinese, Thai, and Sri Lankan temples. By the early 20th century, the number of temples increased, Buddhist communities interacted more, and Vesak Day became widely recognized as the “triple blessed day” commemorating the Buddha’s birth, enlightenment, and passing.

After World War II, as Singapore society rebuilt, religious festivals became more public, and Buddhist associations and temples began to hold large-scale Vesak Day events together. The Buddhist population grew rapidly in the 1950s, and in 1955, Vesak Day was officially declared a public holiday. This allowed Buddhists of all sects and backgrounds to unite, and traditional events such as chanting, Buddha bathing, charity, and lantern processions became open to the general public.

Today, Vesak Day is an “open festival” where not only Buddhists but also people of different religions, ethnicities, and tourists participate. The Buddhist values of compassion, peace, and mindfulness can be felt and shared in everyday urban life. Temples offer free vegetarian meals and charity activities, and the day has become an important opportunity for family and intergenerational exchange, as well as community service.

Participant Voices

I visited as a tourist and was invited to join the Buddha bathing ritual. Pouring water and making a wish, then watching the lanterns at night—I was warmly welcomed and felt my heart was cleansed.

Festival Dates

Vesak Day is held every May at Buddhist temples and neighborhoods across Singapore. Join the early morning temple prayers, participate in the Buddha bathing ritual, and experience the light, prayer, and spirit of compassion that fills the city on this special day.