April -Sinhala Tamil New Year

The Sinhala and Hindu New Year is the only festival in the world that is based on the movement of the solar system and time. Sinhalese and Hindus celebrate the New Year on the 13th and 14th of April. It is an important national holiday for both Sinhala Buddhists and the Tamil Hindu communities of Sri Lanka. It is a holiday unique to this island, and brings with it a season of holidays and happy festivities. All Sri Lankans set aside their ethnic and religious differences and join in celebrating the New Year as a national event. Every ritual is performed at an auspicious time. Gifts are exchanged, Coconut-based sweets and delicacies are delivered to neighbours and traditional games and joyous activities are the limelight of the day.