Buddhist monks march 2,300 miles for peace and a Vesak holiday

Hundreds of people gathered in Alexandria this week to welcome a group of Buddhist monks on their 2,300-mile 'Walk for Peace'. The journey, led by the Venerable Bhikkhu Pannakara, aims to urge the US Congress to establish a federal holiday for Vesak, a key Buddhist observance. As the monks near their final destination in Washington D.C., their message of mindfulness and compassion has drawn local support.

The monks arrived in Old Town Alexandria, where they were greeted by Mayor Alyia Gaskins. She presented them with a proclamation honouring their commitment to peace. City Councilman Abdel Elnoubi also spoke, praising their mission as a reflection of Alexandria's values.

During their stop, Pannakara led a heartbeat meditation session. He encouraged the crowd to release past struggles and embrace the present. Attendees were given 'peace bracelets' as tangible reminders of the monks' teachings. The leader also shared a simple affirmation: 'Today is going to be my peaceful day.'

In his address, Pannakara lightened the mood by joking about society's overuse of mobile phones, calling them 'lovers' that distract from real connections. His talk focused on kindness, self-reflection, and reducing daily stress.

By this afternoon, the group had reached Arlington. They are scheduled to speak at Marymount University before completing their long trek to Capitol Hill.

The monks' journey has yet to prompt any official response from lawmakers. No formal demands or proposals from their march have been publicly recorded as of February 2026. Their arrival in Washington D.C. will mark the end of a cross-country effort to promote peace and recognition for Vesak.