Sri Lanka is a fascinating melting pot of cultures and religions, showcased by a calendar full of colourful festivals. Discover its unique heritage, with some of the most popular festivals and celebrations to experience around the country.
Sinhala & Tamil New Year (April)
Arguably one of the most important festivals in Sri Lanka, this multicultural New Year celebration brings forth renewed solar and lunar cycles, commemorated by both Sinhalese and Tamil communities. Families gather to clean their homes, cook traditional dishes, and engage in games and lively rituals.
Thai Pongal (January)
A multi-day, Hindu harvest festival, Thai Pongal celebrates the end of the winter solstice, marked with vibrant, rice powder artwork and various delectable dishes. Explore Colombo as you sample delicacies and admire the intricate designs of kolam, at restaurants around the city or Pongal-inspired hotel buffets, such as with the “Thai Pongal Utsav” at Cinnamon Red Colombo.
Eid al-Fitr (May or June)
Marking the end of Ramadan, this global festival is a staple in Sri Lanka’s collection of cultural celebrations. The country’s Muslim community celebrates with prayers and gift-giving, accompanied by hearty feasts and fragrant sweets.
Poson Poya (June)
This Buddhist festival commemorates the arrival of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. Pilgrims visit sacred sites to offer prayers and engage in religious rituals, while the cities light up with paper lanterns, large-scale pandols and endless lines of people gathering for free food from numerous dansals.
Aadi Vel Festival (July/August)
Celebrating Lord Murugan, a popular Hindu deity in Sri Lanka, devotees carry kavadi, decorated structures adorned with flowers and fruits, as a symbol of their devotion. The festival features long processions and parades in Colombo from notable khovils, colouring the streets with the vivid decorations and performances.
Katharagama Festival (August/September)
Katharagama Festival – Image via Flickr
This annual festival, held in the southern town of Katharagama, is a major pilgrimage site for both Buddhists and Hindus. Devotees gather to worship the deity Skanda and participate in colourful processions and rituals that blend multicultural and indigenous traditions.