Religion Holiday
Events for May 1, 2026
Lady of Aparecida Day (Brazil)
Our Lady of Aparecida Day honors Nossa Senhora Aparecida, the patron saint of Brazil. The day commemorates the 1717 discovery of a small clay statue of the Virgin Mary by fishermen in the Paraíba River, which became a symbol of hope and faith. Over centuries, devotion to Our Lady of Aparecida grew into one of Brazil’s most cherished traditions. Millions of pilgrims visit the Basilica of the National Shrine of Aparecida, one of the largest churches in the world, to pay tribute.
Vesak Full Moon Poya Day
Vesak Full Moon Poya, rooted in ancient India, commemorates the birth, Enlightenment, and passing away of the Buddha, all on the full moon of May. Introduced to Sri Lanka in the 3rd century BCE, it became the island's most sacred Buddhist festival. Today, Vesak is celebrated with temple rituals and almsgiving, symbolizing peace and the victory of wisdom over ignorance.