Poya Days in 2025 hold great significance for Buddhists in Sri Lanka, as they represent the Full Moon days associated with key religious events. Observing Poya Days is an integral part of Buddhist culture, offering time for reflection, temple visits, and charitable acts. Each Poya day marks an important event in the life of the Buddha or Buddhism’s history, and the year 2025 has 13 such sacred days.
Let’s explore the significance of Poya Days in 2025.
Duruthu Full Moon Poya Day – 13 January, Monday
Duruthu Poya marks the arrival of Lord Buddha in Sri Lanka. Hence, it is in the 9th month after his enlightenment. Celebrated in January, Duruthu Poya focuses on peace, non-violence, and harmony. For this reason, pilgrims gather at Kelaniya Temple, where Buddha has set foot, to pay homage.
Navam Full Moon Poya Day – 12 February, Wednesday
Navam Poya celebrates the first Buddhist Council and the appointment of two key disciples, Sariputta and Moggallana. In effect, this day is significant for its emphasis on discipline and unity within the Buddhist monastic community.
Madin Full Moon Poya Day – 13 March, Thursday
Madin Poya commemorates the Buddha’s return to Kapilavastu, where he was reunited with his father, King Suddhodana. It’s a day to reflect on family values and the importance of showing compassion and understanding toward loved ones.
Bak Full Moon Poya Day – 12 April, Saturday
Bak Poya celebrates the second visit of the Buddha to Sri Lanka. Incidentally, this visit, which took place in the fifth year of his enlightenment, is associated with spreading the Dhamma. Moreover, it established peaceful relations between local tribes.
Vesak Full Moon Poya Day – 12 May, Monday
Vesak Poya is perhaps the most significant Poya Day in 2025. It commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and passing away (Parinibbana) of the Buddha. Illuminated streets, colorful lanterns, and acts of generosity mark celebrations. Buddhists consider this day as the holiest in their calendar.
Day Following Vesak Full Moon Poya Day – 13 May, Tuesday
Incidentally, the day following Vesak is also a continuation of Vesak celebrations. In particular, it focuses on acts of merit such as almsgiving, meditating, and temple visits. Indeed, it is a time for Buddhists to deepen their spiritual practice.
Poson Full Moon Poya Day – 10 June, Tuesday
Poson Poya is celebrated for the introduction of Buddhism to Sri Lanka by Arahat Mahinda. Forthwith, his meeting with King Devanampiya Tissa marked the beginning of a deep-rooted connection between the island and the Buddha’s teachings. As a result, many devotees visit Anuradhapura to observe Poson Poya activities.
Ill Full Moon Poya Day – 5 November, Wednesday
Esala Poya commemorates the Buddha’s first sermon, the Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta, which set in motion the Wheel of Dharma. Hence, this day is important for understanding the essence of the Buddha’s teachings and the foundation of the Four Noble Truths.
Nikini Full Moon Poya Day – 8 August, Friday
Nikini Poya marks the conclusion of the rainy season retreat (Vassana) for monks. Thereupon, the monks reflect on the Dhamma and meditate. In short, it is also a time when laypeople seek blessings and guidance from the monastic community.
Binara Full Moon Poya Day – 7 September, Sunday
Binara Poya associates the establishment of the Bhikkhuni Sangha, the female monastic order. It recognizes and celebrates the contributions of women in spreading and upholding the teachings of the Buddha.
Vap Full Moon Poya Day – 6 October, Monday
Vap Poya signifies the end of the Vassana retreat and marks the start of Kathina season. It is where laypeople offer robes and other requisites to monks. Additionally, it is a time for generosity and gratitude towards the monastic community.
Ill Full Moon Poya Day – 5 November, Wednesday
Ill Poya commemorates the meeting of the Buddha with his first five disciples. Incidentally, they later became the first monks in the world. Thus, the day focuses on the transmission of knowledge and the importance of listening and learning.
Unduvap Full Moon Poya Day – 4 December, Thursday
Unduvap Poya is a significant celebration for Buddhists in Sri Lanka. On this day, they commemorate the arrival of nun Sanghamitta, who brought with her a sapling of the sacred Bodhi tree. As a result, this event symbolizes the spread of Buddhism in Sri Lanka and its deep-rooted heritage.
Conclusion
Poya Days in 2025 offer Buddhists a time for spiritual reflection, learning, and merit-making. In conclusion, Poya days honor key events in the life of the Buddha and the history of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. Incidentally, for Sri Lankan Buddhists, each Poya day is a reminder of the values of compassion, mindfulness, and kindness.
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