Buddha Birth Day Festival

brutalnerd
3 days ago
3 min read

We visited the Fo Guang Shan Chung Tian Temple for our very first time and what a beautiful and serene place. It felt so calming and an honour to even be there. The temple, gardens and statues spread throughout made you feel like you were in another time and place.

Two stone statues of smiling children sit together on a rock, surrounded by grass. One holds a stick. Peaceful, serene setting.

There is quite a lot to see and do, with free activities and entertainment, classes or even a tea meditation you can pay to attend. We did a little calligraphy and played a new Buddhist card game with one of the developers. There was a beautiful souvenir shop and I wanted like... everything. There are no photos allowed inside the temple, shop or rooms though so you will have to go see those for yourself!

A multi-tiered pagoda with orange roofs under a blue sky. White tents with "YFG" text stand nearby. Trees frame the background.

Buddha statue at altar with colorful offerings, floral decorations, and banners in a temple setting. Bright and serene atmosphere.

The festival had three massive highlights for me. The lion dancing, the Shaolin Kung Fu Guan performance and the Alms Procession. The lion dancers were very entertaining and so bright and colourful. They interacted with the crowd too which was great.

Red lion dance costume with vibrant patterns is being touched by a person. Background shows spectators and a festive outdoor setting.

The kung fu was so unreal! It was really well narrated, telling us about all the different fighting styles they showcased. All different ages performed. I was blown away by how good they all were, even the little kids.

Children in orange martial arts uniforms practice moves on a brick courtyard. Spectators watch from steps in the background.

From google "An alms procession, or alms round, is a traditional Buddhist practice where monks walk through a community collecting food offerings. This ceremony, often conducted silently, is a way for monks to sustain themselves and demonstrate humility. It's a significant cultural event in places like Luang Prabang, Laos, where it's a daily occurrence."

The Alms Procession was a real cultural experience. I can't describe it almost. I just felt so calm and grateful. Hopeful. Honoured to be there in their presence. The music playing, their grace as they greeted each person in line with such kindness, then I myself receiving a blessing from one of the monks. Just wow. It was really something you need to experience.

My blessing

We then went and listened to a Buddhist talk on The Nature of Happiness. It was very informative, educational and wonderful. I really highly recommend this free event. I can see myself going back, even if it's just to sit in the gardens and enjoy a cup of coffee from the cafe.

Three stone monk statues enjoy tea on a gray slab against a yellow wall. They appear joyful and serene, each holding a cup.

Accessibility*

Cost

FREE

When

Annually in May

Where

1034 Underwood Rd, Priestdale QLD 4127

Companion Card Accepted

N/A

Ease of Companion Card Use

N/A

Customer Service

Excellent! In fact it was above and beyond. Maybe we always looked lost hahaha, but we had a few times where someone came up to ask if we were looking for something or pointed us to where to go when we talked about something we wanted to see.

Wheelchair Access/Friendly

Yes. Ramps and lifts, so there is no need for the (a lot of) stairs. Accessible toilets on all levels. Wide access to rooms.

Distance From Parking to Venue/Parking

GO EARLY!!! There was disability parking close to the ramp access. Lighting was not an issue for us as we went in the day time, but it looked safe for night time. Parking was free but let me tell you, get there early. We were there just before opening on the Sunday so we got a perfect park and close. When we left and during the day, parking looked a nightmare. It could be quite a hike to the venue if you have to park up the road. There is a drop off point if needed.

Security

We went during the day and felt safe at the festival. It was a very family friendly event. There was quite a lot of staff/volunteers about with very approachable friendly faces. First Aid was easy to find. There were police around as well if needed.

Pet Friendly

I am unsure, but I did see a dog there. Please contact the venue for more information.

Quiet Spaces

Not officially, but there were plenty around the temple and gardens for a little respite.

Food Options

There was quite a few food trucks with usual festival prices and a cafe.

Crowds

There were a lot of people in attendance. The most crowding was around the performances and alms procession. We just spent time out of the crowd, unless going from one section of the temple to another.

I hope this information helps and you get to experience this wonderful event for yourself. If you think anything needs to be added regarding your disability, please feel free to CONTACT ME