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What Are the Major Holidays in Sri Lanka?

Sri Lanka’s holidays often revolve around full moon (Poya) days, religious festivals, and national events. Below are the main holidays to know:

List of Most Important Holidays in Sri Lanka

Sinhala and Tamil New Year (April 13-14)

This festival is the most important cultural event to be found in Sri Lanka. It is celebrated by both the Sinhala and Tamil people alike. To celebrate the traditional New Year based on the solar calendar as it has been handed down for centuries, people of all ages perform a rich variety of customs such as lighting oil lamps, preparing traditional sweets, and engaging in folk games like pillow fighting or tug of war. The joyful and communal spirit offers travelers a chance to witness authentic Sri Lankan traditions and daily life.

Poya Days (Full Moon Days)

In Sri Lanka, every full-moon day (“Poya Day”) is a public holiday, typically 13 or 14 times per year. The days are special to Buddhists, as they mark important moments in the life of the Buddha and the history of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. Notable Poya days include:

  • Vesak Poya Day commemorates the Buddha’s birth, enlightenment, and passing away — all believed to have occurred on a full moon in May.
  • Poson (the arrival of Buddhism in Sri Lanka).
  • Duruthu (the first visit of the Buddha to this Island).

On Poya days, the stores are closed and alcohol can not be sold; some locals travel to temples for religious observances.

National Day (February 4)

This is the anniversary of Sri Lanka gaining independence from British rule in 1948. It includes official ceremonies, parades, and other cultural performances to give visitors a patriotic taste of the country’s history and patriotism.

Religious Festivals

As a nation of multiple ethnic groups, religious holidays in Sri Lanka include:

Hindu Holidays

  • Thai Pongal (January) - The Harvest festival, cooking sweet rice and other traditions.
  • Deepavali (October/November) – "Festival of Lights" celebrated with lights, fireworks, and sweets.

Muslim Holidays

  • Eid al-Fitr (April/May) – End of Ramadan; feasting and family get-together.
  • Eid al-Ad'ha (July/August) – Celebrated with prayers and with charity and the sacrifice of a sheep or lamb by some families.

Note: Muslim holidays like Eid are based on the lunar Hijri calendar and vary each year

Christian Holidays

  • Christmas (December 25) – A time for decorations, midnight masses, and special meals.
  • Good Friday (March/April) – Solemn religious activities.

Labour Day (May 1)

A day to honor workers, celebrated with rallies and events across the country.

Attend Sri Lankan Holidays - Tips for Tourists

Many public holidays, especially Poya days, see closures of shops and public services, so plan accordingly.
Festivals like Sinhala and Tamil New Year can lead to crowded public spaces and traffic congestion; early planning is advised.

Many holidays follow the lunar calendar, so confirm exact dates via the Sri Lanka Tourism Board or local sources.

Best Holidays for Tourists to Experience:

  • Vesak (May) – Stunning lantern displays and devotional atmosphere.
  • Kandy Esala Perahera (July/August) – A grand 10-day Buddhist parade with elephants and dancers.
  • Deepavali (Oct/Nov) – Colorful Hindu celebrations in Colombo and Jaffna.

Joining or just observing festival activities is a rewarding cultural experience and an opportunity to participate in local traditions and hospitality. If you can book your travel on those dates, you will have the opportunity to experience your time in Sri Lanka when the country is filled with unity and harmony, and rich in terms of celebrations and culture.

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