Buddhist Calendar 2026

Vesak (Buddha Day) 2026 falls on May 4, 2026. It commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and passing of Gautama Buddha and is the holiest day in Buddhism.

The Buddhist Era counts from the year of the Buddha's Parinirvana (~544 BCE). Add 543 to the CE year: 2026 CE = 2569 BE. Theravada countries officially use BE dating.

Uposatha days are the lunar observance days — full moon and new moon. Monks recite the Patimokkha and laypeople observe the Eight Precepts, fast, meditate and listen to Dhamma teachings.

Vassa is the 3-month Theravada rains retreat during the monsoon (July–October). Monks remain in their monasteries, laypeople increase their practice. It ends with Kathina, where robes are offered to monks.