Festivals IN SRI LANKA By: Thuviksa

Independence Day in Sri Lanka Sri Lanka's Independence Day is celebrated on the 4th of February It is celebrated all over the country through flag-hoisting ceremonies, dances, parades and performances The President raises the national flag and delivers a nationally televised speech

Sinhala and Tamil New Year In Tamil it is Tamil Puthandu, in Sinhala it is called Aluth Avurudda. We do many activities such as games, family gatherings, family meals, visiting friends and relatives, prayer. Youngsters go to elders paying their respect, and elders give their blessings and money gifts (blessing money) to them.

Deepavali Deepavali is the Hindu festival of lights celebrated every year in autumn. Deepavali is celebrated in the honor of Luxshmi, the goddess of wealth. We do many activities such as lighting, home decoration, shopping, fireworks, prayers, gifts, and sweets.

Kandy Esala Perahera Kandy Esala Perahera is another important festival celebrated by Sinhala people held in July and August.  They celebrate with performing many traditional local dances such as fire-dances, whip-dances, Kandyan dances and various other cultural dances.

Thai Pongal Thai Pongal is one of the most important festivals celebrated by Tamil people from January 14 to January 17. Thai Pongal is mainly celebrated to convey thanks to the Sun God, farmers, and cows.