8 December 2025 Bodhi Day

Bodhi Day is celebrated on 8 December every year and is often a time for quiet and reflection. Celebrations can include time spent studying the Dharma (the teachings of Buddha), chanting sutras (threads of religious teaching passed down through the generations) or holding services to commemorate Buddha's achievement of enlightenment.

Buddhists believe that Siddhartha Gautama - who is the founder of Buddhism and more widely known as Buddha - achieved enlightenment through meditation on this day. The literal translation of 'Buddha' means 'the awakened one'.

During Bodhi Day celebrations, it is traditional to eat a simple meal of rice and milk. Some families with young children also bake cookies in the shape of the Bodhi Tree.