The full moon of the 3rd lunar month marks the celebration of Meak Bochea Day, an important Buddhist holiday which usually falls in late February or early March. Historically, this day commemorates the ordainment of Buddha’s first 1,250 disciples, who spontaneously came to see him and to listen to his sermon 2,500 years ago.
While you may not immediately think of Indonesia when it comes to Chinese New Year celebrations, the 15th day of the Lunar New Year – usually in mid-February – is heartily celebrated in areas of Indonesia with large ethnic Chinese populations (where it is known as “Cap Go Meh”).
This is the largest festival in Champasak province and one of the largest in the entire country. This festival attracts thousands of people each year, who gather at the base of the ancient Vat Phou temple for prayer ceremonies and to enjoy the festivities.
A ceremony is held at the "Vat" (temple) in the morning, when special "bread" made of sticky rice is offered. This festival is held during the third full moon of the lunar calendar.
Lasting through three spring months, the Huong Pagoda Festival is one of the most important annual festivals in Vietnam. Sightseeing trips to pagodas, temples and caves are the main attractions at the Huong Pagoda Festival, as well as ceremonies to ask favours from Lord Buddha.
This religious festival is held at Sikhottabong stupa, located about 8 kilometers south of Thakhek. A trade fair is also held at the festival featuring the display and sales of products from over 130 exhibitors from the nine districts of this central province along with goods from neighboring Thailand.
Anchored by a large, colourful annual procession, Thaipusam sees Hindu devotees in Singapore seeking blessings, fulfilling vows and offering thanks.
Do you ever imagine yourself in a world full of fairy tales? Behold, the biggest fairy tale carnival in Malaysia which will evoke your childhood memories this coming February!
Bau Nyale Festival takes place every year in the tenth month of Sasak Calendar, adjacent to full moon. Meaning ‘to catch the sea worms’ in Sasak Language, Bau Nyale focuses on a drama about the legendary Princess Mandalika.
An important Hindu festival featuring kavadis or ornate frames carried by devotees. The festival attracts over one million people at Batu Caves, a world-renowned Hindu cave temple. Organised by Batu Caves Hindu Association, tel: +603 6189 6284 (From Tourism Malaysia website)
