City of Melbourne

Dating back to 623 BC, the story of the Buddha is beautiful and every poignant.  When Prince Siddhartha Gautama abandoned a life of privilege to assist the downtrodden and forgotten, he sent a message of kindness to all humanity - the ideals of the Buddha live to this very day.

World peace, tolerance, compassion and liberation from suffering: these are values all Melburnians hold in high regard.

The Buddha's Day and Multicultural Festival is an opportunity for Buddhist Melburnians to meet and celebrate, as well as share their message - through ceremony, music and art - with the people of our city.

Melbourne's diverse cultural groups, expressive people and many unique celebrations give our city its harmony and soul.

On behalf of the City, I would like to congratulate Buddha's Light International Association of Victoria and the Venerables of Fo Guang Shan for producing this highly anticipated annual event.

Enjoy celebrating Vesākha at Federation Square.

Lord Mayor Robert Doyle

City of Melbourne