One of the many advantages of attending festival in person is that you get to meet and be part of a truly international community.

At the beginning of the each festival we listen to Venerable Geshe-la’s message on the importance of the festivals in maintaining our International Kadampa Buddhist Union from generation to generation, and attending festival you really see why.

It is so inspiring to meet Kadampa practitioners from around the world and to see the joyful sangha in action, with different areas running different aspects of the festival.

The children in the kids field speak different languages but that is no barrier to friendships forming. In the temple the teachings and meditations are simultaneously translated into many different languages.

Collectively we align our minds with the teachings and aims of Kadampa Buddhism, our motivation and dedication deepen and we return to our local centres spiritually re-energised and empowered. For two weeks we experience the potential for world peace as we live as an harmonious Kadampa society and enjoy these universal teachings that transcend borders.