Holiday Calendar 2024 Sri Lanka
As the year 2023 comes to an end, it’s time to start planning for the next year’s holidays in Sri Lanka. The country has a rich cultural heritage and a diverse community, which leads to many festivals and events throughout the year. In this article, we will take a closer look at the holiday calendar 2024 Sri Lanka and all the events and festivals that you can look forward to.
Public Holidays in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka has a total of 26 public holidays in 2024, including both national and regional holidays. These holidays are observed throughout the country, and most businesses and schools remain closed on these days. Some of the notable national holidays include:
- New Year’s Day – January 1st
- National Day – February 4th
- Sinhala and Tamil New Year – April 14th and 15th
- Vesak Day – May 18th and 19th
- Independence Day – February 4th
Events and Festivals in 2024
Aside from the public holidays, Sri Lanka also hosts many cultural events and festivals throughout the year. Here are some of the notable events and festivals in 2024:
- Colombo Jazz Festival – January 20th to 22nd
- Negombo Beach Festival – February 10th to 12th
- Kelaniya Duruthu Perahera – February 16th to 19th
- World Spice Festival – March 10th to 12th
- Galle Literary Festival – April 3rd to 7th
- Esala Perahera – July 19th to 29th
- Nuwara Eliya Season – August 1st to September 15th
- Jaffna Music Festival – October 5th to 7th
- Diwali – November 2nd
- Christmas – December 25th
Celebrating Events and Festivals in Sri Lanka
Each festival and event in Sri Lanka has its unique traditions and customs. For example, the Sinhala and Tamil New Year is a time for families to come together, prepare traditional meals, and engage in games and activities. Vesak Day is a Buddhist festival that celebrates the birth, enlightenment, and death of Buddha. During this time, the streets are decorated with lanterns, and people offer flowers and food to the monks.
The Esala Perahera is a grand procession that takes place in Kandy, where people parade with decorated elephants and perform traditional dances and music. The Galle Literary Festival is a celebration of literature and brings together writers and readers from all over the world.
Question and Answer: FAQs
Q. What is the best time to visit Sri Lanka?
A. Sri Lanka has a tropical climate, which means that it’s warm and humid throughout the year. However, the best time to visit Sri Lanka is from December to March when the weather is dry and sunny.
Q. What should I wear during festivals in Sri Lanka?
A. Sri Lanka is a conservative country, and it’s recommended to dress modestly during festivals and events. Women should avoid wearing shorts or revealing clothing and cover their shoulders. Men should avoid wearing sleeveless shirts.
Q. Are there any restrictions during public holidays in Sri Lanka?
A. Most businesses and schools remain closed during public holidays, and there might be restrictions on the sale of alcohol during these days.
In conclusion, Sri Lanka has a vibrant culture and a rich heritage that is celebrated through various festivals and events throughout the year. The holiday calendar 2024 Sri Lanka is filled with many exciting celebrations that are worth experiencing. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, these events offer a glimpse into the country’s traditions and customs.