Sinhalese New Year – A Festive Celebration of Culture & Tradition
📅 Date & Period:April 13th & 14th (Celebrations last for about a week)
📍 Location:Nationwide– Major celebrations in villages, Colombo, Kandy, and Southern Sri Lanka
Why is it Special?
The Sinhalese New Year (Aluth Avurudu) is one of Sri Lanka’s biggest cultural festivals, marking the end of the harvest season and the astrological transition of the sun from Pisces to Aries. Unlike Western New Year, this festival is deeply rooted in astrological timings, with specific rituals and customs followed across the country.
It is a time for family reunions, traditional games, festive foods, and religious observances. The atmosphere is filled with joy, as people wear new clothes, exchange gifts, and participate in fun competitions such as coconut scraping, pillow fights, and tug-of-war.
Who Should Visit?
- Culture & Tradition Enthusiasts
- Families & Couples
- Food Lovers
- Photographers
Main Attractions & Activities
- Lighting of the Hearth: Families cook their first meal of the year at an astrologically determined time
- Traditional Avurudu Games: Coconut races, pillow fights, and tug-of-war bring communities together
- New Year Rituals: Visiting temples, boiling milk for good luck, and exchanging gifts
- Drumming & Cultural Performances: Kandyan drummers and dancers perform throughout the country
- Friendly Atmosphere: Locals welcome tourists to join in the celebrations
Local Foods to Try
- Kiribath (Milk Rice) with Lunu Miris
- Kavum (Oil Cakes) – A sweet, crispy Avurudu treat
- Kokis (Crispy Rice Flour Snacks)
- Pani Walalu (Honey-Coated Sweet Rings)
- Mung Kavum (Sweetened Green Gram Cakes)
Who Will Enjoy This Event?
- Families & Children: A perfect time to experience Sri Lankan hospitality and community spirit
- Food Lovers: A must-visit for those who want to taste authentic New Year delicacies
- Photographers: Capture vibrant village celebrations, traditional costumes, and festive energy
- Culture & Tradition Seekers: Experience a festival that blends astrology, religion, and Sri Lankan heritage
