Vesak day (in Singapore and Malaysia known as Wesak)- informally Budha's birthday or Buddha day - is celebrated by Buddhists which marks three momentous events in Buddha's life - his birthday, enlightenment, and achievement of Nirvana (or passing away). The word stems from the name of the second month of the Hindu lunar calendar. It falls in the forth month of the Chinese lunar calendar and is (May) coinciding with the first full moon of that month. This year it falls on 19 May.

Vesak day is one of the biggest days of the year in the Buddhist calendar. Its significance lies with the universal peace message of Buddha to mankind. The celebration begins before dawn when it is traditional to clean the house. Religious services are held in the temples where devotees gather to meditate on the Eight Precepts, perform prayers and religious processions. Hymns are sung in praise of the holy triple gem: The Buddha, The Dharma (his teachings) and The Sangha (his disciplines). Simple offerings of flowers, candles and joss-sticks will be given.

The most impressive ceremonies take place at the Lian Shan Shuang Lin Temple.

When:	19 May 2008
Popular venues:	Lian Shan Shuang Lin Temple (184E Jalan Toa Payoh)
Get there:	SMRT: Toa Payoh
Cost:	FREE