Birthday of Maitreya Buddha
The 1st day of the 1st lunar month is Maitreya Buddha's birthday. Many Buddhists visit temples on the first day of the New Year to pay their respects and offer incense.
Maitreya Buddha Birthday — Dates by Year
| Year | Gregorian Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 2/10 | Sat |
| 2025 | 1/29 | Wed |
| 2026← this year | 2/17 | Tue |
| 2027 | 2/6 | Sat |
| 2028 | 1/26 | Wed |
| 2029 | 2/13 | Tue |
| 2030 | 2/3 | Sun |
About the Deity
Maitreya is the "Future Buddha" of Buddhist tradition, whose Sanskrit name means "loving kindness." The familiar laughing, pot-bellied figure seen in Taiwanese temples is based on Budai, a Tang dynasty Chan monk regarded as Maitreya's incarnation. His beaming smile and capacious belly symbolize boundless tolerance and joyful acceptance of life. Known as the "Happy Buddha," he is traditionally placed at the entrance of temples to welcome all who enter.
Significance of the 1st Day
The 1st day of the 1st lunar month is both Lunar New Year and Maitreya's birthday — a doubly joyous occasion. Temples across Taiwan hold New Year welcoming ceremonies, drawing crowds eager to offer the first incense of the year (tóuxiāng, considered especially auspicious). Visiting Maitreya on New Year's morning to pray for happiness, fulfillment, and a joyful year ahead is a cherished tradition for many Taiwanese families.
Offerings & Prayers
Offerings for Maitreya are typically vegetarian: round fruits (tangerines, apples), cakes, and fresh flowers. After lighting three sticks of incense, bow with palms joined and silently state your wishes, asking for joy, peace, and good karma. A "ruyi" ceremonial scepter symbolizing wish-fulfillment is often placed before Maitreya statues. Many devotees bring home a blessed figurine or amulet from the temple after New Year prayers.