The program will commence with a parade around City Hall at 2 p.m. followed by the opening ceremony at 3 p.m.

This event is for families and those who appreciate the multicultural diversity of Mississauga and the GTA. It has been organized by three prominent temples: Fo Guang Shan, West End Buddhist Temple and Meditation Centre in Mississauga, and Ching Kwok Buddhist Temple in Toronto.

Last year this celebration included representatives from all levels of government, political dignitaries, and members of the public service, and was attended by over 7000 people. This year over 10,000 are expected.

The Buddhist clergy from different countries and many devotees will be in their cultural dress. This event will feature: Sangha chants from the three major traditions of Buddhism, songs, dances, marital arts display from the Shaolin Temple, and food tasting from the cuisine of South East Asia.

There will be a “Buddhism 101” booth, which will be staffed by English-speaking volunteers for those who may be seeking more information on the philosophy and practice of Buddhism. Attendees will hear chants in Sri Lankan, Chinese, Vietnamese, Khmer, Burmese, Thai, Japanese, Laotian, Hindi, Bengali, Pali, and Sanskrit.

The public is welcome to meet with monks, nuns, and devotees, while the media is invited to arrive at 1 p.m. for an open forum interview with Reverend Dr. Bhante Saranapala, Urban Buddhist Monk/Chair and the organizing committee.

For more information, visit: www.vesakcelebration.com; or follow twitter @ vesakcelebration or #vesakcelebrationcanada; and facebook @ http://www.facebook.com/vesakcelebration.

If you go:

DATE: Saturday May 28
TIME: 2-7 p.m.
PLACE: Mississauga Celebration Square
300 City Centre Drive, Mississauga, ON