The Festival
The free annual Buddha’s Day and Multicultural Festival is a not-for-profit festival, which promotes inclusiveness, cultural awareness, cultural understanding; and enhances community spirit and social harmony.
80000 +
Visitors
40 +
Activities
15 +
faboulous food stalls
40 +
Culture & Community
Recognised as a significant event in the Melbourne calendar by the City of Melbourne and the Victorian Multicultural Commission, its primary goals are:
To promote peace and harmony, respect and magnanimity, compassion and cultural awareness
To share the spirit of joy and happiness within the community and families.
The 2-day festival celebrates Buddha’s birthday and the diversity of our multicultural and multi-faith society through;
Traditional Buddhist Ceremonies
Arts, music, cultural performances
Social and spiritual wellbeing lectures
World peace prayers, Blessing ceremonies
Children’s activities
Vegetarian food fair and much more.
Fo Guang Shan (literally meaning the Buddha’s Light Mountain) is one of the largest Buddhist monasteries in the world operating over 300 branch temples and several education institutions.
Its goal and aims are to promote Humanistic Buddhism around the world by the four founding principles:
To propagate Buddhist teachings through cultural activities.
To nurture talents through education.
To benefit societies through charitable programs.
To purify human hearts and minds through Buddhist practices.
Buddha’s Light International Association of Victoria, initially formed on November 1992 dedicated to the propagation of the Dharma, cultural exchange, education and charity work.
The BLIA ROC gradually gained recognition overseas. Subsequently, “Buddha’s Light International Association” was officially inaugurated in Los Angeles, California on May 16, 1992 during which a new chapter in Buddhist history emerged.
WHAT'S ON
16th–17th of May 2020 | Federation Square, Melbourne, VIC 3000
The 2-day festival celebrates Buddha’s birthday and the diversity of our multicultural and multi-faith society through; Traditional Buddhist Ceremonies, Arts, music, cultural performances, Mindfulness lectures, World peace prayers, Blessing ceremonies, Dragon Boat racing, Bodhi Tree Art Installation, Lumbini Garden Sanctuary, Large Format Mindfulness Colouring, Children’s activities, photo competition, Large interactive Animal Sanctuary, Vegetarian food fair and much more
Testimonials
What Do People Have to Say:
Australia is a multicultural and multi-faith country that practices religious freedom. Because we have respect and tolerance for one another, we are able to progress in harmony and bring peace to society.
We are very grateful to City Of Melbourne, Victorian Multicultural Commission, Fed Square, our other sponsors, religious groups, businesses, benefactors, volunteers, and the community for your consistent support which has enabled the Buddha’s Birthday and Multicultural Festival to become a successful event.
Buddha’s Day & Multicultural Festival gives us all the opportunity to strengthen cultural understanding and enrich our diverse faith experience
The festival is an excellent example of how Victoria’s multicultural community comes together to share and embrace all cultures and faiths.
I commend all involved on your efforts to strengthen intercultural and interfaith dialogue, and for reaffirming the shared values that make us a stronger, safer and more harmonious community.
This traditional festival is rich in symbolism and spiritual significance—a time for faith and community, a moment to welcome peace and happiness, and an opportunity to affirm one’s commitment to the Five Precepts.
It is also a powerful reminder of the wonderful gift that Buddhism has brought to this nation, and how its particular values and insights—such as equality, respect and understanding—remain relevant to all Australians.
Contact
The Buddha's Day & Multicultural Festival will take place at Federation Square, located at Swanston St & Flinders St, Melbourne VIC 3000
Come and enjoy the unique atmosphere of one of the most beautiful festival in Melbourne, and the city which has so much to offer.
VENUE:
Federation Square Home to major cultural attractions, world-class events, tourism experiences and an exceptional array of restaurants, bars and specialty stores, this modern piazza has become the heart and soul of Melbourne.
Address: Swanston St & Flinders St, Melbourne VIC 3000
Contact
We are always happy to help you with any questions or recommendations.
MAIL: secretary@bliav.org.au
PHONE: FGS MELBOURNE 03 9314 5147
ER YOU TEMPLE 03 9890 3996
© 2019 Fo Guang Shan Melbourne & Buddha's Light International Association of Victoria. All Rights Reserved. ABN 97 399 290 733.