Full Moon Day of Tazaungmone

What Is Full Moon Day of Tazaungmone?

Full Moon Day of Tazaungmone, also widely known as the Tazaungdaing Festival, is a significant public holiday observed annually in Myanmar. It falls on the full moon day of Tazaungmone, the eighth month of the traditional Burmese lunisolar calendar. This observance marks the conclusion of the Kathina robe-offering season, a period spanning from the full moon of Thadingyut to the full moon of Tazaungmone.

The festival is characterised by a variety of cultural practices, primarily centred around Buddhist merit-making activities and celebrations of light. It is a time for people to offer new robes and other necessities to monks, reflecting a core aspect of Theravada Buddhist tradition. The occasion brings communities together in a display of devotion and communal festivity.

History and Origins of Full Moon Day of Tazaungmone

The origins of Full Moon Day of Tazaungmone are deeply rooted in Buddhist narratives and ancient traditions. The Kathina season, which concludes on this day, commemorates the offering of new robes to monks who have completed their three-month Rains Retreat (Vassa). This practice is believed to have originated during the time of the Buddha, when a group of monks travelled a long distance to see him and arrived with worn-out robes.

The festival also incorporates elements related to the story of Maya, the Buddha’s mother. According to tradition, Maya wove a saffron robe for the Buddha in one night. This legend is honoured through the matho thingan weaving competitions, where robes are ceremonially woven overnight. The emphasis on light festivals, with the release of hot air balloons and lanterns, is also a long-standing tradition in the region, symbolising the expulsion of evil spirits and the welcoming of prosperity.

How Full Moon Day of Tazaungmone Is Celebrated

Celebrations for Full Moon Day of Tazaungmone are diverse across Myanmar, though certain traditions are common. Throughout the country, homes and public spaces are adorned with lights, creating a festive atmosphere. Donations are frequently made to monasteries, and offerings of food, robes, and other requisites are presented to monks.

Robe Offerings (Kathina)

The primary observance is the offering of new robes (Kathina robes) to Buddhist monks. This is typically done through communal ceremonies at monasteries, where families and communities pool resources to provide for the Sangha. These offerings are considered acts of merit, contributing to spiritual well-being.

Matho Thingan Weaving Competition

A distinctive tradition is the matho thingan (non-stop weaving) competition. Teams of women gather at pagodas or monasteries, often beginning at dusk on the eve of the full moon. They work through the night to weave saffron robes, which must be completed and offered to the Buddha images or revered monks before the first light of dawn. This challenging task symbolises diligence and devotion.

Light Festivals and Hot Air Balloons

The Tazaungdaing Festival is renowned for its vibrant light displays. Lanterns are released into the night sky, and fire balloons, some elaborately decorated and shaped like animals, are launched. The most famous hot air balloon festival takes place in Taunggyi, Shan State, attracting numerous spectators. These balloons, often carrying candles or fireworks, illuminate the night and are believed to carry away troubles.

Soon Kyway (Alms Meal) and Communal Activities

During the day, people prepare and offer soon kyway (alms meals) to monks and share food with family and friends. Public performances, concerts, and various entertainments are common in the evenings. Many people take the opportunity to visit pagodas and temples to pray and reflect.

When Is Full Moon Day of Tazaungmone?

Full Moon Day of Tazaungmone is a variable holiday, as its date is determined by the traditional Burmese lunisolar calendar. It falls on the full moon day of the month of Tazaungmone. This usually corresponds to a date in October or November within the Gregorian calendar. Because it is tied to the lunar cycle, its precise Gregorian date changes each year.

Full Moon Day of Tazaungmone Key Facts