The BC Buddhist Festival VESAK for World Peace 2024

Spreading Buddhist philosophy through Compassion, Inclusion, Harmony, Art and Happiness

Click and Join us on Sunday May 5th 2024

About the Festival

We are a public festival created in 2015 and developed in Vancouver by the TSENGDOK Tibetan Monastery. Tibetan Buddhism is one of the many Buddhist traditions present in BC and Tsengdok Rinpoche, his leader in Vancouver has accomplished a lot in order to unify all of them.

Our community wants to spread the Buddhist philosophy in the Western world through compassion, inclusion, Respect, harmony, art and happiness.
For that, the respect and the acceptance of others are the base for a good life and a bright future.

The Festival grows every year! We received more than 15 000 visitors during the last edition.

Our Program during the day

Every year, the Buddha Bathing Ceremony is held for people of all backgrounds to come together and participate in this sacred ritual. This ceremony is a beautiful and symbolic way to honor the birth and enlightenment of Lord Buddha. Participants gather around a large statue of Buddha, which is beautifully decorated with flowers and incense. They take turns pouring scented water over the statue as a way to cleanse their minds and purify their spirits. The act of bathing the Buddha is seen as an act of self-reflection and gratitude, as it is believed to wash away negative thoughts and bring about inner peace. The ceremony is accompanied by chanting and prayers, creating a serene and harmonious atmosphere. It is a time for people to come together in unity, embracing the teachings of Buddha and fostering a sense of compassion and kindness towards all living beings.

Buddha bathing

The workshop for kids is designed to teach them the importance of working together in peace. Through various activities and interactive sessions, children will learn the value of collaboration, empathy, and understanding. They will engage in team-building exercises that will enhance their communication skills and foster a sense of unity among them. The workshop aims to create a safe and inclusive environment where children can express their ideas freely and respect each other's opinions. By promoting peaceful interactions, the workshop will instill in children the values of tolerance, cooperation, and conflict resolution. Kids will leave the workshop equipped with the necessary tools to navigate relationships and contribute positively to their communities. Through this empowering experience, children will develop lifelong skills that will enable them to build a harmonious and peaceful future.

If you are looking to embark on a journey of self-discovery and inner peace, an initiation to meditation with Buddhist monks is the perfect choice. In this serene and tranquil environment, you will learn the ancient art of meditation from the masters themselves. Through their guidance, you will be introduced to various meditation techniques, allowing you to cultivate mindfulness and stillness within your being. As you sit in silence, surrounded by the gentle chants and incense, you will gradually learn to quiet the chatter of your mind and find solace in the present moment. The monks will share their wisdom and teachings, imparting valuable insights into the philosophy and principles of Buddhism. This initiation will not only deepen your understanding of meditation but also enrich your spiritual journey, bringing harmony and balance into your life.

Darmha conference

The Darmha Conference is an annual gathering that brings together scholars, practitioners, and enthusiasts of Buddhist traditions from around the world. This conference serves as a platform for the exchange of ideas and discussions on various aspects of Buddhism, including its philosophy, teachings, and practices.

Cultural Performances

The cultural performances showcased during the BC Buddhist festival evoke a sense of diversity and unity that is beautifully expressed through art. The festival becomes a platform where various artistic traditions merge, creating a tapestry of vibrant and captivating performances. Dancers gracefully move to the rhythm of traditional music, their colorful costumes representing different cultures and regions. Musicians skillfully play ancient instruments, filling the air with soul-stirring melodies. As spectators immerse themselves in these artistic expressions, a profound sense of unity emerges among the diverse audience, transcending language and cultural barriers. The festival serves as a powerful reminder of the beauty and richness that can be found in cultural diversity, inspiring a collective appreciation for the arts and fostering a sense of togetherness.