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Top 16 Thai Festivals to Experience

Top 16 Thai Festivals to Experience

| Last Updated: February 2024

Grab your passports, fellow adventure-seekers! We’re about to embark on an exhilarating journey deep into the heart of Thailand’s most dazzling cultural spectacles. 

Imagine yourself amidst the laughter of water-soaked revellers at Songkran, the gentle glow of lanterns during Loy Krathong, and the serene moments of reflection during Makha Bucha. 

In our curated guide to the top Thai festivals, we invite you to dive headfirst into the vibrant tapestry of these lively events. Join us as we explore the heart and soul of Thailand’s rich traditions, where every celebration is a vibrant expression of the country’s unique spirit. 

Let the festive fun begin!

Songkran (Nationwide)

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Celebrated every: April 13th-15th

Songkran is a fantastic and lively festival in Thailand, and it’s not your average New Year celebration. Happening every April, Songkran is all about ushering in the Thai New Year with a splash – literally! 

Picture this: water fights galore, symbolising washing away the troubles of the past year and diving into a clean slate. But hold on, there’s more to Songkran than just water fun — it’s like a cultural extravaganza! 

People get into religious ceremonies, make some good karma with merit-making, and show some love to the elders. And guess what? Temples take centre stage during Songkran, hosting all kinds of cool ceremonies and rituals.

Local tip:

Dive into the Songkran water fights, but remember to protect your gadgets! Locals usually stow their phones and cameras in waterproof bags to ensure they survive the splashy festivities.

Loy Krathong (Nationwide)

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Celebrated every: November (Date varies)

There’s nothing like entering a mystical world during Thailand’s Loy Krathong festival! This festival, often called the Festival of Lights, is something out of a fairy tale. 

You get to witness a starry night in November, a full moon hanging high, and people floating these stunning little boats called krathongs on rivers and canals. But these krathongs aren’t just any boats; they’re handcrafted and beautifully decorated with candles, flowers, and incense. 

This is a way for folks to express gratitude to the water goddess and let go of any negative vibes. The whole scene, with the shimmering krathongs on the water, creates a breathtaking spectacle that symbolises releasing past grievances and embracing positivity.

Local tip:

Get hands-on by joining a krathong-making workshop before the big day. Crafting your own floating masterpiece not only adds a personal touch but also connects you more deeply with the beauty and symbolism of Loy Krathong.

Yi Peng (Chiang Mai)

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Celebrated every: November (Date varies)

Yi Peng, the Lantern Festival in Chiang Mai, is a dazzling spectacle that lights up the night sky, and it happens every November, right alongside Loy Krathong.

During this festival, thousands of lanterns glowing will float up into the night sky, turning it into a canvas of enchantment. Plus, participants, decked out in traditional Thai attire, gather at temples and open spaces, making wishes as they send their lanterns aloft. 

If you want to experience a moment that feels straight out of a fairytale, Yi Peng in Chiang Mai is the place to be in November. Trust us; you won’t want to miss this ethereal celebration! 

Local tip:

Remember to be respectful of the environment and follow local guidelines for lantern releases to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.

Bun Bang Fai (Northeast of Thailand)

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Celebrated every: Around May and June

Bun Bang Fai, or as they call it, the Rocket Festival, is a fantastic, lively bash that happens in northeastern Thailand and it’s unlike anything you’ve seen! 

When the month of May rolls around, the whole place comes alive with homemade rockets shooting up into the sky. This is done to encourage some much-needed rainfall for the upcoming rice planting season.

During Bun Bang Fai, there are also vibrant parades, traditional music that’ll get your feet tapping, and dances that add a sprinkle of cultural flair. Plus, the rocket decoration competitions are like a showdown of creativity!

Rocket science meets celebration—how cool is that? 

Local tip:

Engage in the friendly rocket-making competitions that often precede the festival. It’s a fantastic way to mingle with the locals, learn about the art of rocket crafting, and perhaps even try your hand at launching one into the sky.

Makha Bucha (Nationwide)

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Celebrated every: Late February or early March

Makha Bucha is a beautiful Buddhist celebration that happens on the full moon day of the third lunar month. The story behind it is pretty special – it commemorates the day when 1,250 disciples just showed up out of the blue to hear a sermon from Buddha, no invitation needed.

So, what happens during Makha Bucha? You’ll get to see candlelight processions around temples, offerings of alms to monks, and everyone diving into prayer and meditation. 

Makha Bucha is like hitting pause, taking a deep breath, and reconnecting with the essence of Buddhism. So, if you ever find yourself in Thailand during Makha Bucha, get ready for a peaceful journey into the heart of Buddhist traditions.

Local tip:

Start your day early and witness the magic of the morning alms-giving ceremony at the temples. The serene ambiance during this time offers a more intimate connection to the spiritual essence of Makha Bucha.

Visakha Bucha (Nationwide)

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Celebrated every: Full moon day of the sixth lunar month (May or June)

Visakha Bucha, also known as Buddha Purnima? It’s not just any Buddhist festival; it’s one of the most important ones celebrated globally, and it holds a special place in the hearts of many in Thailand. 

Happening on the full moon day of the sixth lunar month, this festival is like a triple celebration – marking the birth, enlightenment, and death (nirvana) of Lord Buddha.

During Visakha Bucha, it’s all about candlelight processions, temple visits for prayer and meditation, and making merit through good deeds. It’s a time for spiritual reflection, ethical contemplation, and a fresh commitment to the path of righteousness. 

Local tip:

Take part in the candle-lit procession around the temple grounds. It’s a peaceful and reflective experience that allows you to soak in the wisdom of Buddhism, surrounded by the gentle glow of candlelight.

Mother’s Day/ Queen’s Birthday (Nationwide)

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Celebrated every: August 12

Guess what’s celebrated on August 12th in Thailand? It’s not just any day; it’s Mother’s Day! And what makes it extra special is it coincides with the birthday of Queen Sirikit, who’s like the mother of the whole nation.

During this day, you’ll experience religious ceremonies, lively performances, and the sweet aroma of jasmine flowers that symbolise love and respect. Also, on Mother’s Day, Thai people go all out expressing their gratitude to their moms and the queen. 

Local tip:

Show your respect by donning yellow, the colour associated with the monarchy, during the celebrations.

Chinese New Year (Nationwide)

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Celebrated every: Between January 21 and February 20

Chinese New Year in Thailand is not just lively; it’s a full-blown celebration, especially in areas with a bustling Chinese population. Happening between January 21st and February 20th, this festival is the grand kickoff to the lunar new year.

During this festival, get ready for vibrant street parades, dragon and lion dances that’ll leave you in awe, and streets decked out in the most colourful decorations you can imagine. 

But it’s not just about the visuals; families come together for heartwarming reunion dinners, and temples host special ceremonies that add a touch of the sacred to the festivities.

Local tip:

Spice up your Chinese New Year experience by exploring local markets during the festivities. The markets come alive with vibrant colors, delicious snacks, and traditional performances, offering a taste of the lively atmosphere that defines this celebration.

Candle Festival (Ubon Ratchathani)

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Celebrated every: July (Date varies)

Ubon Ratchathani’s Candle Festival is a spectacle that lights up the skies and marks the beginning of Buddhist Lent. July rolls around, and the city comes alive with intricate wax sculptures that are nothing short of art masterpieces.

By this time, local artisans pour their creativity into these sculptures, crafting detailed designs that often tell Buddhist stories and feature mythological creatures. But here’s the showstopper – a grand candle procession. 

Also, massive candles, beautifully crafted, are paraded through the city, creating a mesmerising display of light, colour, and cultural richness.

Local tip:

Immerse yourself in the artistic world of wax sculptures by exploring local workshops before the Candle Festival. Engaging with artisans provides insight into the intricate craft behind the stunning candle displays, making your festival experience even more fascinating.

Naga Fireballs Festival (Nong Khai and Bueng Kan)

Celebrated every: Mid to late October and early November

Naga Fireballs Festival is this mysterious and awe-inspiring event that unfolds along the Mekong River in Nong Khai and Bueng Kan provinces. It happens around the end of Buddhist Lent in October, and the showstopper is the appearance of glowing fireballs rising from the river.

Now, here’s where it gets interesting. Locals believe these fireballs are nothing less than the breath of the mythical Naga, a serpent-like creature straight out of Thai folklore. Come October, crowds gather along the riverbanks, eyes fixed on the horizon, waiting for the magical moment. 

Local tip:

For the best view of the mysterious Naga fireballs, join the locals along the Mekong River in the early evening. Bring a blanket, relax by the water’s edge, and witness the enchanting natural phenomenon as the glowing fireballs rise from the river.

Old Town Festival (Phuket)

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Celebrated every: February (Date varies)

The Old Town Festival in Phuket brings to life the historic Old Town area, renowned for its beautifully preserved colonial architecture. During this time, expect to witness and experience lively street parades, cultural performances, traditional music, and delicious local delicacies!

But that’s not all – you can also dive into art exhibits, snag some handmade crafts, and join in various activities that capture the unique charm of Phuket’s Old Town.

And the best part of the Old Town Festival is the free boat rides along the central canals of Phuket! It’s like a little bonus treat to cruise through the festivities. 

Local tip:

Delve into Phuket’s cultural heritage by exploring the local Old Town area before the festival. Wander through the charming streets, visit historical sites, and soak in the pre-festival atmosphere, setting the stage for a richer and more meaningful experience during the festivities.

Phi Ta Khon – Ghost Festival (Loei Province)

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Celebrated every: Between March and July

Phi Ta Khon Festival is a unique and lively extravaganza that unfolds in Loei Province. This annual spectacle, usually in June or July, is all about colourful and elaborate masks and costumes that take centre stage.

Participants, known as “Phi Ta Khon,” decked out in vibrant and ghostly attire. We’re talking oversized masks, long flowing robes – it’s like a parade of playful and spirited spectres. 

The festival weaves together traditional rituals with lively performances, including vibrant parades, dances that’ll get your feet tapping, and music that sets the perfect backdrop. It’s not every day you get to witness a celebration where tradition meets playfulness in such a captivating way! 

Local tip:

Channel your inner spirit by participating in the Phi Ta Khon costume-making workshops ahead of the festival. Crafting your own ghostly attire adds a personal touch to your Phi Ta Khon experience and connects you with the lively local traditions.

Vegetarian Festival (Phuket)

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Celebrated every: October (Date varies)

The Vegetarian Festival in Phuket is not just about skipping meat; it’s a remarkable and spiritually significant event that usually unfolds in October. During this time, devotees embrace a strict vegetarian diet and dive into various rituals and ceremonies.

Now, here’s the eye-catching part – colourful processions featuring participants with pierced cheeks and bodies which is a symbolic act of purification. 

But that’s not all; temples take centre stage with traditional performances, cultural shows, and religious ceremonies. The Vegetarian Festival is a celebration of health, harmony, and cultural unity among the Chinese-Thai communities in Phuket..

Local tip:

Embrace the vegetarian delights by exploring local markets and street food stalls during the festival. Phuket transforms into a culinary haven during this time, offering an array of delicious and unique vegetarian dishes that are a must-try for food enthusiasts.

Flower Festival (Chiang Mai)

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Celebrated every: First Friday of February

Chiang Mai’s Flower Festival is a visually stunning extravaganza that unfolds in early February. This three-day event is all about showcasing the region’s floral abundance and artistic talent.

Add in some traditional Thai dances to sprinkle a bit of culture, and let’s not forget the beauty pageant — yes, they crown a floral queen because why not? Parks and streets also get a makeover where everyone comes together to celebrate the beauty of nature.

And when the sun sets, get ready for the real magic: a fountain light show, markets buzzing with life, fields filled with both real and illuminated flowers, and enough Insta-worthy moments to make your followers jealous.

Local tip:

You can enhance your experience by visiting the local flower markets leading up to the festival. Witness the bustling trade of vibrant blooms, learn about Chiang Mai’s horticultural scene, and even pick up a few floral souvenirs to bring the festival’s charm home with you.

Bo Sang Umbrella Festival (Chiang Mai)

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Celebrated every: Third weekend of January

Bo Sang Umbrella Festival in Chiang Mai is a burst of artistry that happens in January. This village, Bo Sang, is known for its traditional umbrella-making craft, and this festival is all about showcasing the incredible skills and creativity of its artisans.

You’ve got this awesome grand parade going on, and what’s stealing the show is the elaborately decorated umbrellas and those classic paper lanterns – they’re like the VIPs of the festival! 

We’re also talking about cultural performances, craft exhibitions, and even workshops where you can try your hand at making your own umbrella. Yep, you can literally craft your way through the festival!

Local tip:

Unleash your creativity by participating in umbrella-painting workshops before the festival. Decorating your own umbrella not only adds a personal touch but also connects you with the artistic spirit of the Bo Sang community, making your festival stroll even more colorful.

Elephant Round Up Festival (Surin)

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Celebrated every: Third week of November

Surin’s Elephant Round-Up Festival is a captivating and one-of-a-kind spectacle that typically unfolds in November. Surin, known as the “Elephant City,” is home to a large population of these majestic creatures, and this festival is all about celebrating their cultural significance.

Now, close your eyes and imagine this: grand parades with elephants, all dolled up and stealing the spotlight. You’ve got traditional shows that aren’t just entertaining; they’re like a showcase of how smart and strong these incredible animals are. 

And then, boom – competitions roll in, adding that extra thrill to the mix. You get to witness elephants playing soccer and processions that give you a front-row seat to the special bond between mahouts (those are the elephant keepers) and their gentle giants.

Local tip:

Get up close and personal with the gentle giants by visiting the local elephant sanctuaries in Surin before the festival. You can interact with these majestic creatures and learn about their conservation to add a heartwarming dimension to your Elephant Round Up experience.

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