Vap Poya and Deepavali: two holidays coming up

Vap Poya falls on Sunday 25 October and Deepavali on Sunday 8 November. What each one marks, and how families celebrate.

Two public holidays are coming up in Sri Lanka, both on Sundays this year, according to the government’s 2026 holiday calendar.

Vap Poya: the end of the rains retreat

Vap Poya marks the end of Vas, the three-month rainy-season retreat when Buddhist monks stay in one place to meditate and study. After Vap Poya, temples hold Katina ceremonies, where families offer a specially prepared robe and other requisites to the monks who kept the retreat. For many families it is one of the most meaningful almsgivings of the year, often planned for months.

Like every Poya, it is a day for temple visits, observing the eight precepts, and quiet time with family. Shops selling alcohol and meat are usually closed.

Deepavali: the festival of lights

Deepavali, also called Diwali, is celebrated by Hindus in Sri Lanka, most of them Tamil, and marks the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. Homes are lit with rows of small oil lamps, and the day often begins with an early oil bath, new clothes and a visit to the kovil (temple). Families draw colourful kolam patterns at the doorway, share sweets with neighbours and visit relatives.

Celebrating far from home

If you are in Melbourne or elsewhere abroad, both days fall on a Sunday this year, which makes it easier to join a temple or kovil near you. Check with your local temple for times, especially for Katina ceremonies, which are often held on weekends after Vap Poya.

Sources: Government of Sri Lanka, 2026 public holiday calendar; Ada Derana, 2026 holiday list. Customs vary between families and communities.