Buddha’s Birthday in Taiwan ― Date, History, and Details
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History of Buddha’s Birthday in Taiwan and How to Celebrate/ Observe It
Buddha’s birthday is a national holiday in Taiwan, and is celebrated on the eighth day of the fourth month of the Chinese lunar calendar. The holiday commemorates the birth of Prince Siddhartha Gautama, who later became the Buddha.
On Buddha’s birthday, people visit temples to pray and make offerings. Many people also release animals that have been caged, in accordance with the Buddhist belief in compassion for all beings. In Taiwan, the most popular animal to release is the carp, which is seen as a symbol of good luck.
Buddha’s birthday celebrations usually last for seven days. During this time, there are special events and activities at temples, including processions, chanting, and the sharing of religious texts. On the final day of the celebrations, a large parade is held in Taipei, featuring floats, musicians, and dancers.