The government has announced that the Sri Buddha Year 2570 State Vesak Festival will be held on May 27, 2026, at the premises of the Midellawala Ancient Temple in Thihagoda, Matara.
According to the Ministry of Public Administration and Home Affairs, the period from May 27 to June 2 has been declared as “Vesak Week” in line with the Cabinet decision dated March 30, 2026.
The All‑Island Sasanarakshaka Mandalaya says Vesak celebrations have been organized across the island by the Ministry of Buddhist Religious and Cultural Affairs, together with the Department of Buddhist Affairs, District and Divisional Secretariats, and with the support of state and non‑state institutions.
The initiative aims to prioritise spiritual development and implement meaningful, fruitful programmes during the week.
All temples, schools, Dhamma schools, and institutions are expected to carry out activities under the full guidance of District and Divisional Sasanarakshaka Mandalayas.
The programme plan for ‘Vesak Week’ is as follows;
May 27, 2026
State Vesak Festival at Matara District and island‑wide inaugural programmes at district and divisional levels.
May 28, 2026 – Theme: “Healthy Life”
Free medical clinics, blood donation campaigns, eye clinics, and organ donation registration organized at the divisional and health officer levels.
May 29, 2026 – Moral Conduct Promotion
Anti‑drug programmes for school and Dhamma school children, youth awareness on Buddhist traditions, moral conduct processions, and shramadana at elders’ homes, children’s homes, and hospitals.
May 30, 2026 – Observance and Meditation (Poya Day)
Observance and meditation programmes at temples that involve students and youth. The day is to be observed as a complete religious day without musical shows or carnivals.
May 31, 2026 – Training for Monks and Nuns
Capacity‑building programmes for monks studying in Pirivena schools, with donor support for facilities.
June 1, 2026 – Spiritual Development
Dharma sermons, discussions, meditation programmes, and awareness for children and youth on Buddhist traditions.
June 2, 2026 – Environmental Conservation
Programmes under the “Clean Sri Lanka” initiative, including lectures and workshops on Buddhism and the environment, cleaning campaigns, tree planting, and establishment of herbal and community gardens. (Newswire)
