The Vesak Festival, also known as Vesak Poya, is one of the most significant religious and cultural events in Sri Lanka, commemorating the birth, enlightenment, and passing away of Lord Buddha. Rideeviharaya, like many Buddhist temples across the country, likely celebrates Vesak with great reverence and festivity.

Here’s how Rideeviharaya might observe the Vesak Festival:

1. Decoration of the Temple: In preparation for Vesak, Rideeviharaya would be adorned with colorful lanterns, lights, and intricate decorations. The temple grounds and surrounding areas might be illuminated with oil lamps and electric lights, symbolizing the light of wisdom that Buddha brought to the world.
2. Vesak Thorana: A Vesak Thorana, or pandal, is a decorative archway depicting scenes from the life of the Buddha. Rideeviharaya might erect a grand Thorana, often made with colorful paper, cloth, and light bulbs, attracting visitors to admire its beauty and significance.
3. Dansalas (Free Food Stalls): Dansalas are a hallmark of Vesak celebrations in Sri Lanka. Rideeviharaya may set up dansalas offering free food and refreshments to devotees and passersby as an act of generosity and goodwill.
4. Bhakti Gee (Devotional Songs): Devotional songs praising the virtues of the Buddha and his teachings, known as Bhakti Gee, might be sung at Rideeviharaya during Vesak. These songs create a serene and reverent atmosphere, enhancing the spiritual experience for devotees.
5. Sil Dansala (Silent Dansal): In addition to regular dansalas, Rideeviharaya may organize a Sil Dansala, where visitors observe sil (precepts) and partake in silent meditation before receiving meals. This practice promotes mindfulness and spiritual reflection.
6. Vesak Procession: Rideeviharaya might participate in or organize a Vesak procession, where monks and devotees parade through the streets carrying relics of the Buddha, chanting hymns, and displaying colorful lanterns and flags. The procession symbolizes the spread of the Buddha’s teachings and attracts crowds of spectators.
7. Lotus Lantern Competitions: Lotus lantern-making competitions are a popular feature of Vesak celebrations. Rideeviharaya might organize or participate in such competitions, where participants craft intricate lotus-shaped lanterns, symbolizing purity and enlightenment.
8. Offerings and Puja: Devotees visit Rideeviharaya to make offerings of flowers, incense, and candles at the shrine, paying homage to the Buddha and seeking blessings for themselves and their loved ones.

Vesak at Rideeviharaya is a time of spiritual renewal, community bonding, and cultural celebration, embodying the essence of Buddhism’s teachings of compassion, generosity, and enlightenment.