“Avurudu Maha Gedara” Celebrations for 2025 New Year

Legendary Chef Publis Silva leads grand cultural festivities with sweetmeats, traditional market, and culinary celebrations

Get ready to dive into the vibrant Sinhala and Tamil New Year celebrations at Mount Lavinia Hotel. With warm, sunny weather and a rich tapestry of cultural ethos, this hotel is ready to welcome the New Year. It is nice to know when traditions are slowly dwindling down in many parts of Sri Lanka, Mount Lavinia hotel keeps the joy and traditions alive.

Mount Lavinia Hotel, affectionately known as “Galkissa Maha Hotalaya,” is proud to announce the return of its beloved “Avurudu Maha Gedara” celebration for the 2025 Sinhala and Tamil New Year. This year’s festivities promise to be even more spectacular, with the iconic Chef Publis Silva at the helm of the culinary offerings.

The concept of “Avurudu Maha Gedara” – the grand ancestral home where families gather during New Year – perfectly embodies Mount Lavinia Hotel’s role as a cultural cornerstone in the community. Just as in the traditional village “maha gedara” welcomes extended families, the historic hotel opens its doors to all Sri Lankans and visitors wishing to experience authentic New Year traditions.

“Avurudu Maha Gedara” at Mount Lavinia Hotel is more than just a celebration – it’s our way of preserving and sharing Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage,” says Anura Dewapura, Chief Operating Officer of Mount Lavinia Hotel Group. “We take pride in creating a space where families and friends can come together to experience the joy and traditions of the New Year in an authentic setting that honors our collective past while creating new memories.”

Kotta Pora, a traditional Sri Lankan pillow-fighting game

Grand Kavili Kade Opening & Avurudu Market

The celebrations kick off with the grand opening of the Kavili Kade (sweetmeat shop) on Sunday, April 6th at 4:30 PM. Visitors will be treated to a vibrant cultural spectacle featuring traditional dancing, music, games, and dramatic performances. Distinguished guests including corporate partners, business associates, ambassadors, and media representatives will attend this colourful inauguration.

The hotel’s courtyard will transform into an eco-friendly Avurudu Market, showcasing special New Year items, homeware, and decorative pieces. Following the grand opening, the Kavili Kade will welcome guests daily from 10 AM to 8 PM until April 13th.

Exquisite Kavili Hampers

For those looking to bring the flavors of Avurudu home, Mount Lavinia Hotel has curated three distinctive kavili hampers named after beloved Sri Lankan flora:

The premium Erabadu Hamper the most comprehensive sweetmeat collection

The Ehela Hamper a delightful mid-range offering

The Bakmee Hamper – a perfect introduction to traditional treats

Each hamper can be delivered directly to your doorstep, making them ideal both for family celebrations and as meaningful gifts during the New Year season.

Feast of the nation

On Avurudu Day, Mount Lavinia Hotel will host its renowned “Feast of the Nation” lunch buffet, celebrating Sri Lanka’s diverse culinary heritage. This extraordinary buffet transcends ethnic boundaries, offering a comprehensive journey through the island’s rich culinary landscape. The feast features authentic dishes from every corner of Sri Lanka, bringing together the distinct flavors and cooking traditions that represent the country’s multicultural identity in one magnificent spread.

“The Avurudu celebration at Mount Lavinia Hotel represents the true spirit of Sri Lankan unity,” Dewapura continued. ” Through our traditional foods, we honor the cultural tapestry that makes our nation so special.”

Mount Lavinia Hotel’s “Avurudu Maha Gedara” welcomes Sri Lankans of all ages and backgrounds to experience the rich traditions of the New Year in the magnificent setting of this historic landmark.For reservations and inquiries, contact Mount Lavinia Hotel at 0112 711 711.