In a contrast to the solemnity of Good Friday, Jews on Friday will be celebrating one of their most festive religious occasions – Purim.

Friday is also International Buddhist Day. Three Tucson Buddhist groups will open their doors to the public celebration. Dharmakirti College begins Buddhist Day with a Meditation Hour from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. at the Little Chapel of All Nations on the University of Arizona campus, followed from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m., for those interested, by recitation of prayers from the Khaton Prayerbook, including the Heart Sutra, along with practices including Manjushri and Rigpa Guru Yoga. Meditation instruction will be provided.

From 6:00 until 9:00 p.m. at 1871 North King Street, Drikung Namgyal Ling, Drikung Kagyu Buddhist Center of Tucson, will offer Lama Chopa Practice and Teachings.

Led by Traga Rinpoche, this practice works towards transforming one’s body, speech, and mind into the pure enlightened state. A weekend teaching on the The Life and Teachings of Lord Jigten Sumgon, the original head of the lineage (1143-1217) will take place at the same venue from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.

From 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., the Tucson Shambhala Center offers meditation practice and instruction, a reception, and an open mic at 3270 North Tucson Boulevard. All are invited to use the open mic to share inspirational readings, songs, poems, stories, and more.