Towards the end of Spring, Buddhists around the world will honor the birth of the Buddha with various kinds of celebrations and traditions on Vesak Day. The date of Vesak Day is based on the lunar calendar and cultural observance, and will fall on May 5th of this year. The holiday may result in businesses, schools, and other organizations closing. To learn more about Vesak Day, visit our Vesak Day Fact Sheet.
On May 4th, the National Day of Prayer and the National Day of Reason will be observed in the United States. Individuals across many faith traditions may observe this day, and institutions, organizations, and businesses may hold events to commemorate it. For more information, visit our fact sheets on the National Day of Prayer and the National Day of Reason.