VietNamNet Bridge – Lotus and Buddhist symbols deck the streets of Hue City for Vesak, which celebrates the birth, enlightenment and nirvana of the Buddha and this year give special attention to children.

Vietnam celebrates Vesak on the eighth to the 15th day of the fourth lunar month, which this year is from May 25, when seven lotus lanterns with a diameter of 7.6m were released on the Huong River, symbolizing the stepping stones to enlightenment.

The festival reaches its highpoint on June 1, when thousands of Buddhists and visitors join a procession of prayer and peace, starting at the Dieu De Pagoda and moving along major streets including Tran Hung Dao, Le Loi and Dien Bien Phu, to the Tu Dam Pagoda.

The pagoda and streets of Hue City are decorated with flowers and flags, and activities during the festival include workshops and seminars on Buddhism and charity activities.

Thich Khe Chon, a monk on the organizing board said, "The Vesak this year is dedicated to young children. It coincides with International Children's Day on June 1. But we always emphasize the importance of children, because they are our future."

Lotus flowers decorate Hue's streets     Colourful lanterns at Huong River   Lanterns on Truong Tien Bridge       National and Buddhist flags       Procession starts at Dieu De Pagoda       Lantern shops       Seven giant lotus lanterns on Huong River