Vap Full Moon Poya Day is a significant national holiday observed in Sri Lanka. It falls on the full moon day in the month of 'Vap', usually between September and October on the Gregorian calendar. Vap signifies the end of the rainy season and the beginning of the cultivation season. The holiday is one of Sri Lanka's dozen Poya Days, marking a full moon and providing an opportunity for Buddhist devotees to participate in religious activities.
The importance of Vap Full Moon Poya Day lies in its religious and historical significance to Sri Lankan Buddhists. This holiday commemorates Buddha’s preaching of the Abhidhamma Pitaka (the psycho-ethical analysis of Buddhism) to the Gods in Tavatimsa. Additionally, it celebrates the arrival of Buddha's disciple, Arhant Moggalana from Tavatimsa. The rituals and observances associated with this day generally involve meditating, offering prayers, and bringing flowers and food offerings to the temple.
Aside from the core religious activities, Vap Full Moon Poya Day also marks the end of the Kathina Pinkama season, a period in which Bhikkhus (Buddhist monks) are entitled to receive new robes. Key events on this day include the 'Kathina' ceremony, seen as the most significant religious event held during the Vap season, in which new robes and other necessities are offered to Bhikkhus. The entire Sri Lankan Buddhist community takes part in religious activities during this holiday, promoting spiritual growth, charity and camaraderie.