Magha Bucha Day commemorates the Sangha Convention (Jaturongkasannibat) when 1,250 Arahants spontaneously gathered to hear the Buddha preach the Ovada Patimokkha, the heart of the Buddha’s teaching. At Wat Phra Dhammakaya, this day carries extra significance as the temple’s founding anniversary.
When is Magha Bucha?
The full moon of the 4th lunar month (around March each year) is Magha Bucha Day. It also marks the founding anniversary of Wat Phra Dhammakaya.
Key ceremonies at Wat Phra Dhammakaya
- Wian Tian (circumambulation) in the evening
- Lighting of over 200,000 Magha lamps (Magha Prateep) around the Maha Dhammakaya Cetiya—a world-famous spectacle
- Evening chanting and meditation sessions
Buddhists from 19 countries and over 50,000 people join this extraordinary gathering every year.
The meaning of Magha Bucha
It recalls the Four Noble conditions of the assembly: 1,250 Arahants who had all attained enlightenment and gathered spontaneously on a full-moon night without prior appointment, and the Buddha then taught the Ovada Patimokkha—principles of not doing evil, doing good, and purifying the mind.
How to join — On-site and Online
- On-site: Wat Phra Dhammakaya, Khlong Sam, Khlong Luang, Pathum Thani 12120. Evening procession starts after sunset.
- Online: Join via Line OA “@dhammakaya” or watch live on the temple’s Facebook page and DMC channel.
More merit-making events
Explore the Dhammakaya Merit Calendar and read about Visakha Bucha Day for the full year of blessing.
