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Festivals
Myanmar is popularly know as the Land of Festivals because of the countless religious and cultural festivals that take place all year round.
Myanmar people are known for their desire for fun, which is evident in round-the-year festivities, celebrated and enjoyed throughout Myanmar. Festivals can be divided into two types, nation-wide and regional. As Myanmar culture is closely intertwined with Buddhism, most of Myanmar festivals center around some religious events. The most popular and nation-wide celebrated festival is the Water Festival, which marks the end of present year and coming of a new year on lunar calendar. So the first month of Myanmar Calendar is in April or the month of TAGU. Almost everyone in the country regardless of age, gender, nationality and belief participate in the major event of the year by throwing or dousing water on each other using bowls, buckets or pipes. It usually falls in April and the Festival is called Thingyan, and lasts for three to four successive days.
Another such festival is the Festival of Lights, called Thadingyut which mark the end of Buddhist lent. During the festival, which last for three days, Buddhist people all over the country illuminate decorated lights in the evenings in reverence to the Buddha. It is also accompanied with funfair of open-air public entertainment, roadside shows, games and stalls. Most of Myanmar festivals are designated according to the Myanmar calendar and each of the twelve months coincides with one or more festivals. Apart from festivals of the Buddhists, there are also those for Christians, Muslims, Hindus and Chinese celebrated among their communities and some of the events are announced public holidays.
To mention a few of the festivals besides the annual Festivities at the Pagodas throughout Myanmar are -
In order not to miss any opportunities, check with your travel agent or the Myanmar Embassy for updates closer to the event.
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