Poya Day (Monthly Full Moon Holiday)
Every full moon is a public holiday in Sri Lanka — no alcohol sales.
What it is
Sri Lanka is the only country in the world where every full moon day (Poya day) is a public holiday. Each Poya commemorates a specific event in Buddhist history. The most important are Vesak (May) and Poson (June). On all Poya days: alcohol is not sold (hotels with liquor licenses may serve guests discreetly), many shops have reduced hours, and Buddhist temples hold special observances. There are 12-13 Poya days per year. As a traveller, the main impact is the alcohol restriction — plan ahead if this matters to you.
Tips for visitors
- No alcohol sales anywhere on the island on Poya days
- Some tourist hotels will serve alcohol to in-house guests discreetly
- Stock up the day before if you want drinks at your villa/guesthouse
- Temples are at their most active on Poya days — a great time to visit
- Not all Poya days are named — smaller ones are simply 'Poya day'
Planning a trip in January?
Weather, sea conditions and crowds change a lot through the year. Read our guide to Sri Lanka in January before you book.
Also in January
- Religious FestivalTamil Thai PongalHindu harvest thanksgiving festival celebrating the sun god.
- Religious FestivalDuruthu PeraheraGrand procession at Kelaniya Temple marking Buddha's first visit to Sri Lanka.
- Cultural EventGalle Literary FestivalInternational literary festival held inside the historic Galle Fort.
- Wildlife & NatureSea Turtle Nesting SeasonFive species of sea turtles nest on Sri Lanka's southern beaches.
- SeasonalHill Country Cool SeasonThe driest, coolest weather in the hill country — perfect for hiking and tea plantations.
Planning around Poya Day (Monthly Full Moon Holiday)?
Tell us your dates and we'll build your itinerary around it — where to stay, how to get there and when to arrive.
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