Looking for a free family-friendly festival that’ll spark joy, creativity, and mindfulness all in one? From Friday 2 to Sunday 4 May 2025, Melbourne’s Buddha’s Day & Multicultural Festival is lighting up Golden Square with three unforgettable days of culture, art, music, and hands-on fun – and it’s absolutely free to attend.
Proudly presented by Fo Guang Shan Melbourne and BLIA VIC, this iconic event welcomes Melburnians of all ages and backgrounds to celebrate harmony, compassion, and multiculturalism in the heart of the city.
Festival Highlights for Families
Children’s Wonderland
A dedicated kids’ zone packed with puppet shows, face painting, arts & crafts, and storytelling that introduces the life of Buddha in fun and imaginative ways. It’s a perfect spot to slow down and enjoy mindful moments together.
The Light: Digital Animated Bodhi Tree
Don’t miss the jaw-dropping animated light projection on the five-storey mural at 217 Lonsdale Street – running Friday and Saturday nights. This mesmerising show, titled The Light, brings to life the story of Buddha’s enlightenment with vibrant visuals and spiritual storytelling.
Multicultural Performances
Expect a colourful line-up of live music, song, and dance from cultures across the globe – from Vietnamese and Japanese to Macedonian, Indian, and beyond. It’s a brilliant way to introduce the kids to global traditions, right here in Melbourne.
Guided Meditation & Tai Chi
For grown-ups or teens needing a moment of calm, there are guided Ch’an meditation sessions and Tai Chi (aka “meditation in motion”) running throughout the weekend. Bliss!
Tea Ceremony & Mindfulness Forest
Experience the tranquillity of traditional tea ceremonies, or get creative in the Mindfulness Forest – a luminous installation space where art and peace of mind go hand in hand.
Bathing the Buddha & Lumbini Garden
Step into a replica of the sacred garden where Buddha was born, and take part in the Bathing the Buddha ceremony – a beautiful way to engage kids in meaningful ritual.
Baby Blessing Ceremony
Have a bub under 5? Register for the Baby Blessing on Sunday – a serene ceremony where Venerables from Fo Guang Shan bless little ones with hopes of a joyful, wise and compassionate life. Register here.
📍 Golden Square, Melbourne
📆 Fri 2 May: 6.30pm – 9pm, Sat 3 May: 11am – 9pm, Sun 4 May: 11am – 5pm
🎫 FREE
Whether you’re in it for the food, cultural performances, the guided meditations or the spectacular light show, Buddha’s Day & Multicultural Festival 2025 promises a weekend of warmth, wisdom, and connection – perfect for the whole fam.
For the full program and more info: www.buddhaday.org.au
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