Sri Lanka Day, Pasadena (Sat. June 9th)

SLday.com; Wisdom Quarterly

Buddhists in Sri Lankan often refer to themselves as “Lions” or “The Lion Nation.” One of the reasons is the lion symbol on the country’s flag.

The other reason is less well known but much more meaningful. The lion is frequently linked to words such as courageous and proud.

The Sri Lanka Foundation is dedicated to the preservation of Sri Lankan or Sinhalese culture. It strives to exhibit courage and pride in charitable work and events.
 

One of the foundation’s most significant events is “Sri Lanka Day,” celebrated this year on Saturday June 9th. Every year the foundation works to bring the sights, sounds, tastes, and general feel of Sri Lanka to spectators who gather in one location from all over California.

The Buddha's bodhi tree lives in Sri Lanka.

It is an annual celebration and tribute to the culture and heritage of the Sri Lankan people. In coordinating the event the foundation seeks to inform the public about the small Buddhist island at the tip of India and its customs.

The foundation also aspires to bring generations of Sri Lankans together as a community, to pass along history from one generation to another. The event will take all attendees on a trip to Sri Lanka through traditional food, music, dance, art, and theater.
 
Attendees will listen to the echo of handmade drums. They will experience a visual feast of vibrant costumes, colorful clothing, and ornate jewelry. Participants can also explore the spices and aromas of curries and traditional sweets while being captivated by dancers and performers.

Children and adults alike will revel in the Kandy Perahera the famous Sri Lankan parade that features theatrical elephants of equal size to real elephants. And all of these experiences can be enjoyed without ever leaving California.
 

In previous years “Sri Lanka Day” has attracted more than 100,000 visitors. In 2015 it became particularly special as it was the first year the event was hosted in the city of Pasadena. It was also the first year the foundation sponsored its own dance troupe to perform.

Every year reaching new heights with “Sri Lanka Day,” this year is no exception. Join the fun this Saturday, July 9, 2016, at the Paseo Colorado located at 280 East Colorado Blvd., Pasadena, CA 91101 and experience the pride of Sri Lankan culture! More + MAP