Vesak 2026 in Milan: three days to reflect on freedom and liberation

The Italian Buddhist Union (UBI) hosts Vesak 2026 from Friday 22 to Sunday 24 May at Fabbrica del Vapore (Cattedrale space). The free, public programme combines traditional ceremonies, talks, music and meditation practices aimed at exploring the meaning of freedom in contemporary life.

Programme highlights

• Creation and symbolic dispersion of the maṇḍala, illustrating impermanence.
• Meditation sessions, including a dawn practice led by master Carlo Tetsugen Serra.
• Dialogues and panels with cultural and scientific figures such as Daria Bignardi, Vito Mancuso, Daniel Goleman, Richard J. Davidson, Elisa and Kasia Smutniak.
• Musical performances featuring Elisa, Mauro Pagani, Gianluca Gotto and Vasco Brondi.
• Kyudo (Japanese archery) demonstration and an animal blessing ceremony.

Exhibitions and social initiatives

The event hosts themed areas for Dharma in Action, care projects, end-of-life support, ecology and regenerative agriculture, plus photographic and art exhibitions on Buddhist heritage. The MACO museum contributes a selection of Fosco Maraini's images and other displays related to Buddhist art.

All activities are free but registration is required. See the Italian Buddhist Union website and Eventbrite for the full schedule and booking information.