Kathina

Theravāda Buddhist robe-giving festival. It takes place in October/November, and celebrates the end of Vassa, the three-month retreat of ordained Buddhists. During Kathina, members of the Buddhist laity will visit the monastery, bringing food and gifts. People often gather around the path of the present-bearers, because touching the gifts allows their merit to be shared by everyone. Cloth is given to the monks who have a single day to make the Kathina robe, according to an ancient design. Only one robe can be made, and it is given to a chosen monk. The new robe symbolizes a new beginning.