Vaisakhi, also called Baisakhi, is the festival which celebrates the founding of the Sikh community, the Khalsa, in 1699.
When is Vaisakhi?
Vaisakhi is a spring festival which happens on the 13 or 14 April every year.
In 2024 Vaisakhi takes place on Saturday 13 April.
It was originally a harvest festival in the Punjab until it became Sikhism's most important festival.
What is the story of Vaisakhi?
Image caption, In 1699, Sikhs from all over the Punjab gathered together to celebrate the local harvest festival of Vaisakhi. The tenth guru, Guru Gobind Singh, came out of a tent carrying a sword. He asked anyone who was prepared to give their life for their religion to step forward.
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How is Vaisakhi celebrated?
On Vaisakhi, Sikhs go to the Gurdwara in the morning for a service.
Afterwards, they have a procession through the streets with lots of singing, chanting and colourful clothes. The procession is called the Nagar Kirtan.
In the evening, Sikhs have a special meal with family and friends.
Learn about the meaning behind the Sikh names
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