October Lighting Festival
The Festival of Lights, held in October, is a time when people decorate their homes and businesses with lights. It is a time when people celebrate the end of the Buddhist lent period. This is a celebration of the Buddha’s return from heaven where he had spent the lent teaching of Dhamma to angels including his reincarnated mother. It is a time for forgiving bad actions to elders including parents, teachers, relatives and friends. It is also Christmas time in Myanmar because family members gather to celebrate the Lighting Festival together. If you’re visiting Myanmar during the Thadingyut festival, be sure to enjoy the celebrations!
Lightning Fire Bolloon
Lighting fire balloons during the October (ဝှ်) Festival is a beautiful tradition symbolizing respect to the Buddha’s return from heaven. The rising balloon represents letting go of negativity and sending wishes for peace and blessings to the sky. It also serves as a joyful offering of light to honor the end of Buddhist Lent. Communities gather to celebrate with lanterns, candles, and fireworks, strengthening unity and cultural pride while spreading love, joy, and spiritual devotion across generations.
Benefits of Lighting Oil Lamp
Lighting oil lamps during October, the Festival of Lights, symbolizes the dispelling of darkness and ignorance through wisdom and virtue. It is a way to honor the Buddha’s return from heaven and to show respect to elders and spiritual teachers. The act of offering light brings peace, positive energy, and merit to the giver. It also strengthens community harmony, encourages mindfulness, and reflects gratitude, making it a meaningful tradition during the sacred month of October.
Gallery Activity
