Festivals in Thailand is hard to miss because they are vibrant and colorful occasions to celebrate the country’s rich history and cultural traditions. Thai festivals are a huge part of their culture that they are also willing to share with the locals and tourists. You can check out Thailand Blog to prepare for your travels. But before that, here are some of Thailand’s most celebrated festivals.
Long Boat Races
This is a fun event that takes place all across Thailand, particularly in riverside provinces. Teams will compete in long, sleek boats, paddling their way to the beat of drums. These races celebrate the end of the rainy season.
Loy Krathong
This magical festival only takes place on the full moon night of the twelfth lunar month. This is usually celebrated in November. During this festival, people are releasing beautifully decorated floats made of banana leaves, flowers, and candles. These are called “krathongs” and they are released into rivers, canals, and lakes. This symbolizes letting go of negativity in life and starting anew.
Phi Ta Khon (Ghost Festival)
This is a unique festival held in Loei Province, Dan Sai. The festival combines religious traditions, animism, and a playful spirit and is believed to honor the spirits and chase bad luck. Those who participate will have to wear masks and colorful costumes. They parade through the streets, dancing and engaging in merry-making.
Songkran (Thai New Year)
Songkran is one of the widely celebrated festivals in Thailand. This is held in mid-April and it marks the Thai New Year when the locals and tourists join in and enjoy water fights. This activity symbolizes cleansing and purification. During the festivals, people also visit temples and pay respect to elders.
Vegetarian Festival
The Vegetarian Festival called “Tesagan Gin Je” is observed by Thai-Chinese communities. Participants of the event avoid eating meat and engage in vegetarian and vegan diets. This is for spiritual purification. The vegetarian festival is celebrated with colorful parades and ceremonies. Locals and tourists can enjoy vegetarian dishes from street food stalls.
Yi Peng Lantern Festival
This festival which is very popular in Chiang Mai is celebrated alongside Loy Krathong. This northern Thailand celebration is enjoyed by locals and tourists alike. This is when thousands of paper lanterns or “khom loi” are released into the night sky.
Thai festivals are fun and exciting as they are celebrated with loud music, dancing, colorful costumes, and cheerful gatherings of locals and tourists. Visitors can enjoy these festivities through traditional ceremonies, trying local food, and just experiencing Thai hospitality and friendliness.
