
Everything you need to know about celebrating Vaisakhi
Vaisakhi is a vibrant festival celebrated by millions of Sikhs around the world. Vaisakhi (also called Baisakhi) is the festival that celebrates the founding of the Sikh community, the Khalsa, in 1699.
Vaisakhi happens on 13 or 14 April each year, and this year falls on Monday 14 April.
Who celebrates Vaisakhi?
Vaisakhi is celebrated by Sikhs and Hindus, but has different meanings to each religion.
For Sikhs, Vaisakhi marks the formation of the Khalsa in 1699 – a hugely significant moment in Sikh history.
For Hindus, Vaisakhi is a celebration of the harvest festival and the solar new year.
The history of Vaisakhi
1699 was a time when Sikhs faced oppression and persecution. Guru Gobind Singh – the tenth Sikh Guru – called upon his followers to gather in Anandpur Sahib on Vaisakhi. In a dramatic and historic moment, he asked for volunteers willing to give their lives for their faith. One by one, five men stepped forward. These five, later known as the Panj Piare or ‘Beloved Five’, were initiated into a new brotherhood called the Khalsa.
Guru Gobind Singh initiated the five Ks tradition of the Khalsa, which is a big part of the Sikh religion. The five Ks are physical things worn by Sikhs that symbolise a life of devotion and submission to the Guru.
The five Ks are:
- Kesh (uncut hair)
- Kara (a steel bracelet)
- Kanga (a wooden comb)
- Kaccha – also spelt, Kachh, Kachera (cotton underwear)
- Kirpan (steel sword)
For Hindus, Vaisakhi is a harvest festival that marks the beginning of a new solar year. It is a time to express gratitude for a successful harvest and seek blessings for the coming season. In several Indian states, including Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh, Vaisakhi is celebrated with fairs and dancing.
How is Vaisakhi celebrated?
Vaisakhi celebrations differ in different countries and regions but typically the day for Sikhs starts with a trip to the Gurdwara (the Sikh place of worship) for a service. This is followed by Nagar Kirtans – colourful processions through the streets with lots of singing, chanting and traditional dancing.
For many Hindu communities, Vaisakhi is an occasion to ritually bathe in sacred rivers, visit temples, spend time with family and friends, and attend community celebrations.
In the UK, there are some spectacular Vaisakhi celebrations. In London there is a free celebration in Trafalgar Square on Saturday 19 April with an exciting line-up of music and live performances, including Gatka – the traditional Sikh martial art and dhol drumming.
Birmingham is home to the UK’s largest Vaisakhi celebration on Sunday 11 May 2025, with an open air Vaisakhi in the Park event.
Glasgow and other UK cities also hold vibrant processions, bringing communities together in celebration.
How to wish someone a happy Vaisakhi
Vaisakhi is an important celebration for Sikhs and Hindus. You can wish someone a good Vaisakhi by simply saying: “Happy Vaisakhi!”
We wish all students, staff and alumni celebrating a very blessed and happy Vaisakhi!