Wesak books for kids: what it is and how to celebrate
When is Wesak? around Thursday 20 May 2027. Dates marked “around” depend on the moon and local calendars. Wesak (Vesak) falls on the full moon in May for many Buddhists; dates differ between countries and traditions.
Wesak, also called Vesak or Buddha Day, is the most important Buddhist festival. Many Buddhists celebrate the Buddha's birth, his enlightenment and his passing on this one full-moon day.
Who celebrates Wesak, and books for each
Buddhist
Buddhists visit temples, bring flowers, candles and incense, bathe statues of the baby Buddha, hang lanterns and do kind deeds, such as giving food to others or setting free captive birds.
📖 Free guideHappy Birthday, Buddha!
Christine H. Huynh
children celebrate the Buddha's birthday on Vesak
Questions to ask → View on Amazon ↗
📖 Free guideMy Vesak: Day of Buddha
Priya Kumari
a richer read about the birth, awakening and passing of the Buddha
Questions to ask → View on Amazon ↗
📖 Free guideUnder the Bodhi Tree: A Story of the Buddha
Deborah Hopkinson
the Buddha's life, told for children
Questions to ask → View on Amazon ↗
Questions to ask while you read
Use these with any of the Wesak books on this page. Pick two or three, and there are no wrong answers.
- What is the family in the story getting ready for?
- Which part of Wesak would you most like to try, and why?
- How do the people in the story show they care about each other?
- Is anything in the story like something your family does?
- What would you like to ask a friend who celebrates Wesak?
Ways to celebrate Wesak with children
- Make a paper lantern and hang it in a window.
- Float a flower in a bowl of water and sit quietly together.
- Do three kind things in one day.
- Pour a little water over a small statue or toy, like bathing the baby Buddha.
Wesak picture books at a glance
All the Wesak books on this page: Happy Birthday, Buddha! (Christine H. Huynh), My Vesak: Day of Buddha (Priya Kumari), Under the Bodhi Tree: A Story of the Buddha (Deborah Hopkinson).
Questions parents ask about Wesak
Why are lanterns lit at Wesak?
They stand for the light of the Buddha's teachings and enlightenment.
Related festivals: Bodhi Day · Mid-Autumn Festival
All festivals, by month and by faith →
Traditions vary between families, places and communities; ask your child's friends and their families how they celebrate. As an Amazon Associate, Growing Wise earns from qualifying purchases.