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Festivals and Cultural Events | |
| Sri Lanka’s culture is diverse and has been influenced by many factors such as religion and colonialization by the Dutch, the Portuguese and the British. Festivals are a part of Sri Lankan culture and are either religious or national. Most festivals are observed in grand scale.
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One of the biggest Buddhist celebrations of the year, the annual Esala Perahera is a religious ceremony during which devotees pray for good rains to cultivate... |
Vel
Countrywide
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The Vel Festival is celebrated by Hindus in Colombo and is held in honour of Lord Sri Murukan, the God of War. The event begins with a lively procession... |
World Spice Festival
Colombo
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First held in 2005, the World Spice Festival is an opportunity for locals and visitors alike to sample a range of different cuisines representing all... |
Deepavali
Countrywide
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Also known as "Diwali" or the "Festival of Lights", Deepavali is one of the biggest celebrations for the Hindu faith. Marking the arrival of the new moon... |
Duruthu Perahera
Colombo
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A popular religious and cultural event, the annual Duruthu Perahera celebrates Lord Buddha's third visit to Sri Lanka and is marked by a huge procession... |
Nawam Full Moon Poya Day
Colombo
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This incredible spectacle celebrates the February Full Moon with a two-day event that includes parades and processions with elephants, dancers and music... |
Sinhala and Tamil New Year
Countrywide
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Sri Lanka's Sinhalese and Tamils celebrate New Year each April with a series of feasts and religious services. Unlike many New Year celebrations that... |
Vesak Day
Countrywide
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Vesak Day is one of the biggest days of the year in the Buddhist calendar and is celebrated by Buddhists all over the world. The day marks the birth,... |
Poson
Anuradhapura
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The annual Poson festival is an ancient celebration which commemorates the introduction of Buddhism to Sri Lanka in the third century BC. It was spread... |
Independence Day
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Sri Lanka celebrates its Independence day on the 4th February every year. This day the Sri Lankan attained independence from British rule. |
Kite Festival
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Kites of various shapes and sizes are flown in the sky in a grand contest held on seashore in Colombo. |
