Ullambana: History, Facts & Insights

This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about Ullambana (2024) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. Ullambana is observed on August 30th.

Among the information you’ll find below: the history of Ullambana, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as important facts you should know about Ullambana.

📅 What day is Ullambana 2024?

In 2024, Ullambana is on Wednesday, August 30th. It is the 5th Wednesday in August; in 2024, it is Friday. There are until the next observance. You also can explore all intriguing details and facts about August 30, 2023, that you might not be aware of.

Ullambana is an annual Buddhist festival that takes place on the 15th day of the seventh lunar month, which falls on August 30 this year. It is commonly referred to as the “Ghost Festival” as Buddhists use this occasion to honor and remember their departed family members and friends. It is believed that during this time, the souls of the deceased come back to the world of the living for a day. While there are different customs and traditions observed based on local practices, the fundamental principles and purpose of Ullambana remain consistent. As a result, you may witness a variety of ways in which this festival is commemorated.

📜 Ullambana History

The backstory of this day is fascinating. It revolves around Sariputta, a young child who saves his mother, Petavatthu, from being trapped in the fifth life cycle as a ghost. Sariputta builds shelters and fills them with food for the poor as a way of helping his mother. The gods accept his offering, and his mother is freed.

Similar versions of this story can be found in Chinese and Japanese literature, with slight variations in names and places of origin. However, the core of the story remains the same. Ullambana, the day associated with this narrative, is traditionally celebrated by feeding the poor and adorning the streets and homes with lights and lanterns to guide lost spirits.

While some may draw connections between Ullambana and the Mexican Day of the Dead, they are actually quite distinct. The Buddhist religion focuses on the life cycle and rebirth, while Mexican Christians have their own unique practices.

To truly understand and properly celebrate this day, it is recommended to visit China or Japan, where it is still observed in various towns.

✅ Ullambana Facts

🔖 Bringers of luck and fortune
In the days to come, it is believed that the house or stall where the needy gather the largest amount of food is considered to be the most fortunate and blessed.

🔖 A Ghost Festival with real ghosts
Several individuals have asserted that they have come across supernatural entities on this specific day.

🔖 The gates of Hell
According to Buddhist beliefs, it was widely held that on this particular day, the gates of hell would open, granting the deceased the opportunity to receive offerings from the living.

👍 Why Is Ullambana Important

Although we should love and be kind to our parents every day, today is a special day to remember the son who gave everything he had to save his mother. The son’s love for his mother serves as a reminder of how strong the family bond should be, and so, at least on this day, we should prioritize our parents.

According to legend, the gates of hell have been unlocked, allowing the dead to return and collect their contributions. It is a clear indication that the deceased are in desperate need of our assistance.The blessings of what we give to the poor are what help the dead in the afterlife, so the more we give, the more our loved ones receive.

Who doesn’t like a good festival? Festivals occur to celebrate, either with family or with friends, or both. Do we even need an excuse to enjoy a festival? Just join the spirits in their celebration!

🙂 How To Observe Ullambana

⚡ Give away food to the needy

⚡ Celebrate it with your parents
The key focus of this event is to show respect and gratitude towards your parents. Sariputta’s act of sacrificing for his mother serves as an example, reminding us to be kind and caring towards our own parents and to spend quality time with them.

⚡ Decorate your home
Spirits do not eat food, but they reap the benefits of their living loved ones’ offerings when they feed the destitute. So be careful to feed the hungry and destitute so that the spirits might answer their prayers.

📅 When is Ullambana?

Discover all 🔗 August holidays, including 🔗 Religious and other 🔗 Buddhist holidays.

We will continue to update this page with new information and interesting facts about Ullambana. So be sure to check back soon.