According to Buddhist tradition, the Buddha was born in Lumbini Garden in Kapilavastu, on the borders of Nepal, on the full moon day in the lunar month of Wesak, which usually falls in May. In celebration of the Buddha's birth we hold the Festival of Wesak in May each year, and ladle water over a statue of the Baby Buddha as a mark of respect and gratitude.

Wesak is considered to be the Buddhist New Year, and is one of the biggest festivals of the Buddhist calendar. It is a time when friends and family of Sangha members are encouraged to come and celebrate with us.

The Buddha's Enlightenment and Parinirvana are also said to have taken place on the full moon of Wesak, and some traditions of Buddhism celebrate these three together at Wesak in May. In the Zen tradition it is traditional to celebrate the Buddha's Enlightenment in December, and Parinirvana in February.