What is Vaisakhi?

Vaisakhi, also called Baisakhi, is the festival which celebrates the founding of the Sikh community, the Khalsa, in 1699.

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.

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.

Have a look at the thinking points below. You can discuss them with somebody else if you want to. There are no right or wrong answers so remember to be respectful if somebody else has a different thought or opinion.

1. Sikhs say that being ‘God-conscious’ is the best way to help people do ‘selfless service’. What do you think can help people to not be selfish?
2. The Panj Piare had lots of courage. What does it mean to have courage? Why is it important to stand up for what is right, even when it might be difficult or scary?
3. The Gurus teach that God made every human equally important. Why does this matter?