Vesak Workshops + Vesak Day 2024

As the temple prepared for one of Buddhism’s most important celebrations, Vesak, the energy was palpable. Months of hard work and creativity finally culminated in two days of events on the 25th and 26th of May, each moment more meaningful than the last.

The Workshops: A Community Effort

In the months leading up to Vesak, the LBYG community came together for a series of 12 workshops that transformed ordinary evenings into a hub of activity. These workshops were filled with laughter, learning, and teamwork as volunteers of all ages handcrafted the stunning Vesak display. From creating intricate lanterns to painting vibrant backdrops, every detail was lovingly brought to life.

Whether it was weaving together delicate frames or adding the final strokes of paint, the dedication was undeniable. The result? A magnificent display showcasing a series of scenes from the life of the Buddha, beautifully adorned with lanterns and decorations. Our Vesak 2024 display truly embodied the collective spirit of creativity and devotion shared by the entire community.

A huge thank you to our members who spent countless hours crafting, painting, and assembling the masterpiece. Each contribution was invaluable, and it was incredible to see everyone’s talents shine. The workshops not only produced stunning decorations but also strengthened the bonds of our community, making this Vesak even more special.

The Vesak Celebrations: A Weekend to Remember

Saturday, May 25th, kicked off with insightful Dhamma talks led by both resident and guest monks, tailored specifically for the youth. These sessions were filled with wisdom, offering teachings on mindfulness, kindness, and the importance of living a life aligned with the Dhamma. The discussions were both engaging and inspiring, creating a space where our younger members could ask questions and deepen their understanding of Buddhist teachings.

Then, the highlight of the weekend: Sunday, May 26th. The temple grounds came alive with the main Vesak event, and the LBYG Vesak display was unveiled to a crowd filled with excitement and admiration. The attention to detail and the craftsmanship displayed over the previous months shone through, as visitors marveled at the intricate lanterns, vivid scenery, and the overall beauty of the exhibit.

In addition to the display, our annual LBYG Bake Stall was a massive success! A wide array of baked goods—cupcakes, cookies, and traditional treats—were prepared and donated by our generous community, all to support our annual School Project, which provides aid to disadvantaged school children in Sri Lanka. The response was overwhelming, with a steady stream of customers lining up to sample the delicious offerings, and we couldn’t be more grateful to everyone who contributed.

The funds raised from the Bake Stall, combined with donations of time, effort, and baked goods, will help us reach our goal and make a real difference in the lives of children in need.

A Grateful Heart and an Exciting Future

As we look back on Vesak 2024, it’s clear that this year was one of our most memorable and fulfilling celebrations yet. The dedication of our members, the beauty of the Vesak display, the enriching Dhamma talks, and the overwhelming support for our Bake Stall have left us filled with gratitude.

We look forward to continuing this journey of compassion, creativity, and community as we take on future projects and events. Thank you once again to everyone who made Vesak 2024 so special—we couldn’t have done it without you!