Festivals in Sri Lanka you shouldn’t miss! – Dive into the local culture

This Poya (Lunar monthly Buddhist holiday) festival falls on the month of March, and as per the Buddhist moon calendar, is the first full moon of the new year. Vesak poya is a celebration of three things: it is on this day that Lord Buddha was born, found enlightenment and passed away. This festival takes over the entire island and several cities, with beautiful Vesak lanterns of all colours and sizes. Almost every home has a lantern-lit up and you also get to see really unique creations! Worshippers also spend hours at the temples, praying during this time. Areas around temples and main attractions in cities like Colombo and Kandy are beautiful during this time. Vesak is best appreciated when you walk around!

Another time that calls for celebration in Sri Lanka is Independence Day celebrations, which falls on the 4th of February. During this time, you're likely to see every store and house with the national flag flying high. There are several functions and processions that occur during this time! On this day, most stores are closed – so try not to make any plans on this day.

This festival is the celebration of Lord Rama's defeat of Ravana and is known as the Hindu festival of lights. Since Hindus are also part of Sri Lanka's population, Deepavali is celebrated quite grandly across the island. Homes are adorned with lights and clay lamps, and the streets are alive with celebration. There's plenty of delicacies to enjoy around this time and the celebrations last for roughly five days, with the most important day being the last!

The most anticipated festival is the Perahera, which is another huge poya celebration. This day celebrates the arrival of the Buddha Tooth Relic to the Temple of the Tooth, located in Kandy. If you're looking for things to do in Kandy, during the months of July and August, this festival has to be on the top of your list! The procession happens in the heart of Kandy town, less than 15 minutes away from Earl's Regency. A procession happens every day for a weak, and the experience cannot be topped – you'll see dancers, musicians, dressed up elephants, rituals and a lot of fire! You will have to get there early in order to secure a good seat!

You'll know the Sinhala and Tamil New Year is approaching when you hear the distant caw of the Koha bird. This festival marks the beginning of the Lunar year and this happens in April. This island takes on a relaxed and festive state during this time as it is celebrated by almost everyone on the island, regardless of faith! You can take part in playful competitions and games, eat traditional food and dress up.