This is the celebration of the actual appearance day of Lord Krishna. It is a very special day, and is celebrated around the world.

It is the major annual festival for Vaishnavas and in that way could be likened to Christmas in the Christian calendar. Traditionally many devotees will fast until midnight, the hour of Lord Krishna's appearance, having spent the day performing devotional activities in honor of this most auspicious occasion.

For those who are able to stay the night before, the day's festivities begin with a special morning program that begins at 04.30. The morning program includes personal prayer and meditation, and a class describing the special meaning of Janmashtami. Festive activities continue throughout the day, culminating in a feast after the midnight Arati.

Festive activities will include:

• Cooking 108 different delicacies for offering to the Lord at midnight (all the foods and drinks are then served to guests and celebrants).
• Darshan (viewing) of the Lord in His specially decorated murti (statue) form on the flower-laden altar.
• Abhiseka (public bathing) of the form of the Lord using fruit juices and milk products.
• Bhajans (devotional songs) sung to traditional tunes accompanied by traditional instruments (and sometimes modern ones).
• A drama re-enacting the pastimes of Lord Krishna.
• Dance in the traditional Indian style, sometimes with modern innovations, portraying the Lord's pastimes.
• Readings from the scriptures, particularly the section describing the Lord's unique birth and the intriguing events leading up to and following His arrival.

Everyone is welcome to this very special event!