The Birthday of the Goddess of Mercy or Kuan Yin happens three times a year.  The first birthday falls on the 19th day of the 2nd Chinese lunar month. The second and third birthdays fall on the 19th day of the 6th and 9th Chinese lunar months respectively. These dates denote Kuan Yin’s birthday, her initiation and the event of her attaining the state of Nirvana.

The Goddess of Mercy or Kuan Yin is a Bodhissattva or the enlightened being who hears the sufferings of the world and reaches out in compassion. Boddhisattvas are enlightened beings who live in this world, foregoing nirvana to help others and guide them to the pure land. Kuan Yin is revered by the Buddhists and Taoists.

The 19th day of the 2nd month in the Chinese lunar calendar is the birthday of Kuan Yin as a mortal. Buddhist temples will hold major observances, which include burning of incense, lighting candles, chanting and making offerings.