Losar
February 28, Friday
When is Losar celebrated
Tibetan New Year usually falls in February or March and is celebrated for three days, although preparations for the celebration can begin several weeks beforehand. The dates vary according to the lunar calendar and the beginning falls on different days each year.
Losar Traditions and Customs
Preparation for the Festival: A few weeks before Losar, houses are thoroughly cleaned to clear them of past negativity. It is also customary to decorate houses with special images, drawings and mandalas.
Pure intentions and prayers. On the eve of Losar, Buddhists gather in temples, perform purification rites, and seek blessings from gods, spirits, and Buddhas for protection and prosperity in the new year.
Festive dishes. Food plays a special role in the festival, especially the nine-ingredient soup "gutu" and sweet cakes with dough decorations, which are brought to temples and offered as sacrifices.
Rituals. On the second day of the festival, known as the day of King Losar, large-scale religious rituals and Buddhist services are held. Monasteries host prayer ceremonies, folk dances, and theatrical performances.
Third day. This day is dedicated to cleansing the soul and space of evil spirits and bad luck, when people light fragrant incense and incense on altars.
Losar in other years
- 2022 March 3, Thursday
- 2023 February 21, Tuesday
- 2024 February 10, Saturday
- 2026 February 18, Wednesday