Meditations, multicultural performances and fireworks: Melbourne’s beloved Buddha Day is back
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16.05.2023

Meditations, multicultural performances and fireworks: Melbourne’s beloved Buddha Day is back

Buddha Day

Celebrate the Buddha's birthday at this free Fed Square festival.

From May 19 to 21, the longstanding cultural event will return for three days of festivities.

Featuring decorated displays, light and firework shows, ceremonies and multicultural performances, the weekend promises a moment of peace, enlightenment and jubilee.

Buddha Day 2023

  • The annual event will run from May 19 to 21 at Fed Square
  • It will feature blessing ceremonies, classes, performances, fireworks, meditation sessions and much more to celebrate the Buddha’s birthday
  • Entry is free

Stay up to date with what’s happening in and around Melbourne here.

The square will be taken over with gorgeous displays honouring the Buddha.

Take a stroll through the Lumbini Garden, inspired by the place where Queen Maya gave birth to the Buddha. Find giant Buddha figurines and elaborate floral displays representing the lotus flowers that bloomed as the ascetic took his first steps on this earth.

In the Lotus Sanctuary, wander beneath massive glowing lotus flowers and take the time to reflect on the Buddhist understanding of the cycle of life. Take part in one of the festival’s hourly meditation sessions, held in the Sanctuary, to reconnect with the world, yourself, and those around you.

A centrepiece of the event will be a massive animated Bodhi tree. The Artists in Motion team has created a digital rendering of the tree where the Buddha sat for seven weeks until he received enlightenment. The tree will move and change to represent the ascetic’s emotional journey.

On the opening night, there will be an opening ceremony followed by a dramatic firework display.

Throughout the weekend, see performances of all cultures varieties  – see a giant bubble show, Bulgarian dancing, a Mexican band, Kstar hip hop dance, Tai Chi, Highland bagpipes and so much more. The performances will be interwoven with traditional ceremonies.

The roster is truly a mixed bag, so take a browse to make sure you don’t miss your favourites.

For more on the Buddha Day festival happening from May 19 to 21, head here