Buddha’s Birthday, celebrated on the eighth day of the fourth lunar month, will fall on May 5th this year, next Monday. It is a public holiday in Hong Kong, marked by ceremonies, prayers and community events that reflect Buddhist values of peace and compassion.
To celebrate the occasion, a free carnival will take place that day at Victoria Park, on Football Pitches 4, 5 and 6.
The event will run from 9:00AM to 5:30PM, with cultural performances starting at 9:15 am. Organised by the Hong Kong Buddhist Association, the celebration will feature over 100 booths with cultural activities, games, exhibitions and vegetarian food.
Programme highlights include:
- 09:00 – 17:30: Buddha Bathing and Cultural Carnival
- 09:45 – 11:30: Opening Ceremony and Blessing Ritual
- 11:30 – 17:00: Public Buddha Bathing, Parent-child Activities and Vegetarian Culture
- 17:00 – 17:30: Prayers for Peace and Disaster Relief
Other activities include bell-ringing for wishes, a parade representing the Shakya clan, the Cloud and Water Mobile Library, and exhibitions about the life of the Buddha and Buddhist teachings.
These experiences are designed to encourage reflection, kindness and a deeper understanding of Buddhist values in everyday life. Visitors can take time to explore artworks, join peaceful rituals, or engage with displays that highlight the wisdom of the Dharma in modern society.
Families and children can enjoy hands-on workshops and educational zones that present Buddhist culture in a fun and accessible way. Quiet spaces are also available for reading, writing sutras, or simply relaxing in a calm environment. Vegetarian food booths will offer not only meals, but also insights into the role of mindful eating in Buddhist practice. Visitors who take part in various activities across the site can collect stamps at selected booths and receive a special souvenir as a memory of the day.
| When | May 5, 2025 |
| Where | Soccer Pitch 4 to 6, Victoria Park, Causeway Bay |
| Cost | Free |
Header Image Credit: Hong Kong Tourism Board
