Children’s Day Celebration

In the Shambhala tradition we celebrate Nyida Days four times a year, as they mark the change of a season. These are special days when the whole community gathers at the Shambhala centres, with family and friends, and everyone enjoys the festivities, special celebratory ceremonies, and delicious food.

Winter Nyida Day is celebrated on Winter Solstice, the shortest day of the year. On that day we celebrate Children’s Day. We celebrate generations, acknowledging the end of one season, and the beginning of a new one. We use candlelight to acknowledge the darkest day of the year, and the beginning of a cold winter season. Celebrating Nyida Days is acknowledging the change of seasons and being in tune with the natural cycle of life.

This year we have celebrated Children’s Day on Saturday December 20^st, in the newly renovated Rigden shrine room! The new light colours and bright lights made the room feel very spacious and elegant — a proud accomplishment of many volunteers who worked on the renovation project.

We’ve had our beautiful visiting Queen and King, who shared their wisdom and gave out candies; Children’s Shrine with Four Dignities, specifically arranged for the occasion with the help of the children; and even a giant crown wreath, which was built and decorated by the children. Children of all ages had a great time, and after a delicious potluck meal did what they love to do most at the centre — building forts with cushions! After this event I wish we could celebrate Children’s Day more often than just once a year!

For more photos visit Harald’s Flickr photo album. For more about Children’s Day 2014, visit the Shambhala Times.