Amazing Tastes of Major Thai Festivals & Events 2020

Major Thai Festivals & Events 3 Major Thai Festivals and Events 2020 P. 6 17th International Marathon P. 15 Festival P. 7 Flower Festival P. 19 International Balloon Festival @ 2020 P. 8 Amazing Thailand Marathon P. 20 Hua Hin International Jazz Festival 2020 P. 9 Festival P. 21 The Great Mekong Bike Ride P. 10 Trang Underwater Wedding Ceremony P. 22 Thailand Cultural Music Festival P. 11 Krabi Naga Fest 2020 P. 23 International Street Food Festival P. 12 International Music Festival 2020 P. 24 Laguna International Marathon 2020 P. 13 The 35th ASEAN Barred Ground Dove Festival P. 25 Phi Ta Khon Festival P. 14 World Wai Khru Ceremony P. 26 Thailand Shopping & Dining Paradise 2020

4 Major Thai Festivals & Events P. 27 H.M. the King Rama X’s Birthday Celebration P. 35 Laguna Phuket Triathlon P. 28 Pattaya Marathon 2020 P. 36 River Kwai Bridge Week P. 29 Candle Festival P. 37 Festival P. 30 H.M. Queen Sirikit’s Birthday Celebration P. 40 Bangkok Marathon P. 31 Phuket Vegetarian Festival P. 41 Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya World Heritage and Red Cross Fair P. 32 Wax Castle Festival P. 42 Thailand Yacht Shows P. 33 End of the Buddhist Lent Festival & Naga Fireball Phenomenon P. 43 Phuket King’s Cup Regatta P. 34 Illuminated Boat Procession P. 44 Thailand’s New Year Countdown Celebration

Major Thai Festivals & Events 5 International runners are competing in four race divisions: th a 42.195-km. full marathon, a 21.10-km. half marathon, a 11.55- 17 Khon Kaen km. mini marathon, and a 4.5-km. fun run. All race divisions start and finish at the Golden Jubilee Convention Hall, International , . The race, organised by the Khon Kaen University Alumni Association, is officially Marathon sanctioned by the Association of International Marathons and Road Races (AIMS) and the Athletics Association of Date: Thailand (IAAF Rules). 26 January, 2020 Contact: TAT Contact Center: 1672, Venue: TAT Khon Kaen Office: Tel. +66 4322 7714-6 Khon Kaen University, Website: www.tourismthailand.org District, Khon Kaen www.khonkaenmarathon.com

6 Major Thai Festivals & Events Living up to the name ‘Rose of the North,’ Chiang Mai organises the Chiang Mai Flower Festival to showcase Chiang Mai its beautiful flowers and decorative plants which are in full bloom towards the end of the winter season in early Flower February. Suan Buak Hat Park is transformed into an open- air exhibition centre where you can find a magnificent Festival tapestry of floral splendor that blankets the land, agricultural exhibitions, and floral displays, contests, and sales. Orchid Date: lovers should not miss the opportunity to see a variety of beautiful orchids grown by locals. The festival also features 7-9 February, 2020 flower-decorated floats that parade around the city showing Venue: the vibrant colored flowers as well as dancers in traditional Suan Buak Hat Park, costumes. Mueang District, Chiang Mai Highlight: The floral floats compete to find the most beautiful and creative display, and the best float for cultural preservation will receive a trophy. Other highlights include plant and flower sales, as well as several kinds of competitions.

Contact: TAT Contact Center: 1672, TAT Chiang Mai Office: Tel. +66 5324 8604, +66 5324 8607 Website: www.tourismthailand.org

Major Thai Festivals & Events 7 The Amazing Thailand Marathon Bangkok (ATMBKK) is presented by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) - Amazing following world-class organisation standards. Runners will enjoy a unique city-centric course that will take them past Thailand some of Bangkok’s amazing landmarks. There are 4 race categories; Marathon (42.195 km.), Half-marathon (21.1 Marathon km.), Mini-marathon (10 km.), and Fun Run (3.5 km.). Bangkok Highlight: The route lets the ATMBKK runners enjoy a unique city-centric course, which passes some of Bangkok’s amazing landmarks; such as, the Victory Monument, Date: Equestrian Statue of King Rama V the Great, and Rama VIII 2 February, 2020 Bridge, before heading to the finish line at the Democracy Venue: Monument. Bangkok Contact: TAT Contact Center: 1672 TAT Bangkok Office: Tel. +66 2276 2720-1 Website: www.tourismthailand.org www.amazingthailandmarathon2019.com

8 Major Thai Festivals & Events Chinese New Year is widely celebrated in Chinatown on Yaowarat Road, one of the most famous roads in Bangkok Chinese often referred to as the Golden Road and the Land of the Siamese Dragon. Visitors experience the strong connection New Year between Thai and Chinese communities through the magnificent cultural performances that show the deep Festival roots of Chinese culture in Thailand. This special occasion is opened by HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn every Date: year. There are several shrines located in this area, and it is believed that making at them during Chinese New 24-25 February, 2020 Year brings good luck. Venue: Chinatown on Yaowarat Road, Highlight: Street performances such as dragon parades Bangkok and lion dances, take place along Yaowarat Road, along with a wide range of delicious Chinese cuisine on sale on both sides of the street. Wearing a Chinese costume to participate in this event is recommended.

Contact: TAT Contact Center: 1672 TAT Bangkok Office: Tel. +66 2276 2720-1 Website: www.tourismthailand.org

Major Thai Festivals & Events 9 Trang welcomes visitors from all over the world to participate in and witness the romantic and fantastic wedding ceremony Trang on Valentine’s Day. Apart from the registration procedure that takes place underwater, the ceremony also introduces Underwater a traditional Thai style wedding to the participants. The ceremony starts with a Khan Mak procession, a colorful and Wedding lively parade in which the groom makes his way to ask the bride’s parents for their daughter’s hand, accompanied by Ceremony folk dances and songs. A religious and blessing ceremony also take place, at which the bride and the groom have to Date: wear traditional Thai costumes. 13-15 February, 2020 Highlight: The procession of brides and grooms parades Venue: through the city streets to the traditional Thai wedding Tham Morakot, ceremony. The spectacular ceremony is complete with the , Trang underwater registration procedure in which the brides and grooms are required to be certified divers.

Contact: TAT Contact Center: 1672, TAT Trang Office: Tel. +66 7521 5867 Website: www.tourismthailand.org

10 Major Thai Festivals & Events Krabi Naga Fest 2020 is designed to promote Krabi’s image as a natural, cultural, and full of tourist events, which are Krabi Naga in harmony with Krabi province’s tourist attractions. In addition, it aims to integrate the work of various agencies Fest 2020 in creating promotional events to encourage both Thais and foreigners to travel in Thailand. Enjoy the festival from Date: 17.00 - 24.00 Hrs. 28 February-1 March, 2020 Highlight: With the romantic atmosphere by the sea, Venue: enjoy famous Thai and international pop jazz performers, Krabi food and beverage stalls from 4-5 star hotels, fresh seafood, and many more Interesting events.

Contact: TAT Contact Center: 1672, TAT Krabi Office: Tel. +66 7562 2163, +66 7561 2811-2 Website: www.tourismthailand.org

Major Thai Festivals & Events 11 Pattaya International Music Festival is one of the best recognized music events in Asia to attract music lovers Pattaya and fun-seekers from all over the world. The three-day free concert featuring Thai and international artists of every International genre starts around 6 p.m. and goes until midnight. Visitors can enjoy beach activities during the day before attending Music the music festival as the night falls. In addition to the concert, there are booths selling music-related accessories Festival 2020 and food stalls within the concert venue.

Highlight: This festival is regarded as ‘The Longest Beach Date: Music Festival in Asia’ with different stages at which you can 20-22 March, 2020 enjoy all styles of music; such as, pop, R&B, hip-hop, rock, Venue: and jazz, in the one festival. Pattaya, Chon Buri Contact: TAT Contact Center: 1672, TAT Pattaya Office: Tel. +66 3842 8750, +66 3842 7667 Website: www.tourismthailand.org

12 Major Thai Festivals & Events Thai people in Yala love the sweet cooing sound of doves th and believe that the birds bring good luck to the owners. The 35 Those birds with qualities specified by ancient texts are believed to bestow great wealth and honour on their ASEAN owners. This festival features a competition in which the participants come from all over Southern Thailand, as well as Barred from neighbouring countries; such as, , Singapore, Indonesia, and Brunei. There are contests to find the most Ground Dove beautiful cage and demonstrations of cage-making, Festival displaying the local wisdom of Yala. Highlight: The major highlights are the competition to find the dove with the most melodious and sweetest cooing Date: sound and the red-whiskered bulbul singing competition. March, 2020 Venue: Contact: TAT Contact Center: 1672, Khwan Mueang Park, TAT Narathiwat Office: Tel. +66 7352 2411 Mueang District, Yala Website: www.tourismthailand.org

Major Thai Festivals & Events 13 The project focuses on Muay Thai and has further developed this practice within its historical cultural context into an World international cultural activity. With the inclusion of the World Wai Khru Muay Thai Ceremony as an integral part Wai Khru of the revival process, it has ensured that the end product Muay Thai maintains its cultural authenticity Highlight: Various activities to observe such as making of Ceremony Aranyik Swords, performance of Thai martial arts including the ceremony of paying respect to masters of Muay Thai and Date: pay homage to the late Thai great kings. 16-17 March, 2020 Contact: TAT Contact Center: 1672, Venue: TAT Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Office: Maha That, Phra Nakhon Si Tel. +66 3524 6076-7 Ayutthaya Historical Park, Website: www.tourismthailand.org Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya

14 Major Thai Festivals & Events Songkran is the traditional Thai New Year celebrated on 13 to 15 of April, 13th being the Thai New Year, 14th being the Songkran nation’s Family Day, and 15th being National Elderly Day. This festival is the time for family reunions at which family Festival members get together and make merit at the temple and gently pour water mixed with Thai fragrance, called “Nam Date: Op Thai,” over the Buddha images. The Nam Op Thai is also 13-15 April, 2020 used to pour over the hands of the elders when asking them for their blessing. Venue: Nationwide The Songkran Festival would not be complete without the water throwing sessions. Most of the activities during Songkran Festival involve water, as the underlying significance of this festival is the process of cleansing and purifying one’s self before starting the New Year.

Highlight: Visitors can celebrate Songkran Festival nationwide or experience the uniqueness of the event in major cities as follows:

Bangkok: Thais believe that a visit to nine temples in one day gives the worshippers prosperity and good luck. Visitors can make merit at any nine temples around Bangkok, followed by throwing water at some of the most famous venues; such as, Khao San Road and/or Silom Road.

Major Thai Festivals & Events 15 16 Major Thai Festivals & Events Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya: Apart from the alms-giving and merit-making activities, you can watch the Miss Songkran beauty pageant, see a cultural performance, and throw water. The highlight of Songkran in Ayutthaya is the chance to play with elephants in the water.

Chiang Mai: Chiang Mai Songkran Festival includes a procession of Phra Phuttha Sihing, a highly revered Buddha image, around the city. People on both sides of the road sprinkle fragrant water on the Buddha image. This ceremony is followed by the sprinkling of water to seek the blessing of the elders, creating sand- pagodas, and watching Lanna cultural performances and folk games. The festival is not complete without water-throwing activities.

Nong Khai: Visit Chai and sprinkle water on the sacred Luangpho Phra Sai, the Buddha image highly revered by the local Thai and Lao people. Take part in the water-throwing as well as enjoy the local North-Eastern cuisine and cultural performances by the Mekong River.

Nakhon Phanom: One of the major rituals performed in Nakhon Phanom at the Songkran Festival is to create a pagoda Cultural performances and entertainments start late and the with sand, and sprinkle fragrant water over water-throwing starts after nightfall. sacred sites; such as, the Phrathat Phanom. Enjoy throwing water at Khao Pun Road, and : Celebrate the Thai New Year at Si explore the folk plays and entertainment Thamma Sokarat Park and Sanam Na Mueang. The activities at Hat Sai Tong Si Khotrabun and include making merit, bathing the Phra Phuttha Sihing Renu Nakhon. Buddha image with fragrant water, and watching the Hindu-based Nang Kradan procession and cultural Khon Kaen: Songkran Festival in Khon Kaen performances, as well indulging in the water-throwing. features ox-cart processions decorated with flowers and beauty pageants. A not-to- Phuket: Songkran Festival on the Beach attracts locals and be-missed place to visit is Khao Niao Road foreigners at Hat Patong. You can witness the procession of (Sticky Rice Road), similar to Bangkok’s the Phra Phuttha Sihing Buddha image along Hat Patong, Khao San Road, where you can throw water and participate in several other activities, including the wa- as well as join the local elders who perform ter splashes. folk dances. Moreover, you can participate in the human wave activity recorded in Chon Buri: There are two places in Chon Buri – Bang Saen the Guinness Book of World Record as the Beach and Pattaya – where Songkran is celebrated after largest human wave in the world. Songkran Day. This event is called ‘Wan Lai’ Songkran Festival, translated as “Flowing Day” of Songkran Festival. The Wan Lai Hat Yai: Hat Yai celebrates Thai New Year Bang Saen Songkran Festival and Wan Lai Pattaya Songkran differently from other Festival feature making merit at temples, building sand- with the Hat Yai Midnight Songkran Festival. pagodas, and watching cultural performances and beauty contests, as well as the water-throwing sessions.

Major Thai Festivals & Events 17 Samut Prakan: Phra Padaeng Songkran Festival is usually held a few days after Songkran at Amphoe Phra Padaeng. This is a Mon or Raman style event as there is a large Raman community living in Phra Pradaeng. At this festival, you can learn how to play Saba, a Raman game, as well as watch the Beauty Queen and King Pageants.

Sukhothai: Songkran Festival in Sukhothai is celebrated at Wat Traphang Thong in Sukhothai Historical Park, Si Satchanalai Historical Park, and Phraya Litai Memorial Plaza. Visitors can offer alms to the monk and join in the bathing rituals of the Buddha image, and enjoy various forms of entertainment; such as, cultural performances, and food fair.

Suphan Buri: Suphan Buri celebrates Songkran Festival along Nen Kaeo Road with a procession of highly revered Luangpho To Buddha image, followed by a procession of various districts of Suphan Buri province and floral carts procession. Enjoy performances, Miss Songkran Beauty Contest, and water- throwing activities.

Kanchanaburi: The Songkran Festival in Kanchanaburi is celebrated at Sangkhla- buri district, where thousands of Mon people are residing. Featuring merit- making on the Bridge of Hope, the Mon will carry food on their head to serve to the monks. And more interestingly, there is the Mon ceremony of purifying Buddha statues through bamboo pipes that can be kilometres in length. During the auspicious day, men will voluntarily lie down on the street to make a human bridge for monks to walk upon to the purifying area and after finishing the ceremony, the men will carry the monks to their huts. Visitors can join a parade offering off-season Buddhist robes to monks, installation of a parasol on the sand pagoda, and pour ceremonial water at Wat Wang Wiwekaram.

Contact: TAT Contact Center: 1672, Website: www.tourismthailand.org

18 Major Thai Festivals & Events The international balloon performances from countries around the world. See balloons in various shapes and sizes International which make the area amazingly wonderful.

Balloon Highlight: Enjoy the “Balloon Night Glow Show” consisting of attractive colours and lights that will bring fun and novelty Festival to the exhibitors, “Balloon Flight Exhibition”, workshops, tethering walking street, delicious food and products of @ Hat Yai Thailand. 2020 Contact: TAT Contact Center: 1672, TAT Hat Yai Office: +66 7420 0000 Date: Website: www.tourismthailand.org 1-3 May, 2020 Venue:

Major Thai Festivals & Events 19 Hua Hin Jazz Festival invites jazz-lovers to listen to their all- time favorites and contemporary tunes in a relaxing beach Hua Hin atmosphere. The stages on the beach feature renowned Thai and international jazz artists. The sound of the waves International accompanying the beautiful jazz music makes for a relaxing Jazz ambience. Highlight: You can enjoy the beautiful jazz music performed Festival 2020 by Thai and international artists who gather at this one event while sampling a variety of scrumptious cuisines and Date: refreshments available at the stands along the beach. June, 2020 Contact: TAT Contact Center: 1672, Venue: TAT Prachuap Khiri Khan Office: Hua Hin Beach, Tel. +66 3251 3885, +66 3251 3871, Prachuap Khiri Khan +66 3251 3854 Website: www.tourismthailand.org www.huahininterjazz.com

20 Major Thai Festivals & Events The ultimate international cycling tournament in Northeastern Thailand. There are 3 stages: Stage 1: Nakhon Phanom– The Great Mukdahan route (distance 166 km.). Start from the seven- headed Naga Statue (), pass Mekong Phrathat Phanom, and finish at Wat Phu Manorom (Mukdahan province)/Stage 2: Mukdahan-Sakon Nakhon route (distance Bike Ride 155 km.). Start from the Ho Kaeo Mukdahan Observatory, pass the Phu Pha Yon National Park, Khong Ping Ngu, and finish at Date: the Phu Phan National Park Office ()/ 29-31 May, 2020 Stage 3: Sakon Nakhon-Nakhon Phanom route(distance 93.5 km.). Start from the Sakon Nakhon City Gate to finish at Venue: the seven-headed Naga Statue in Nakhon Phanom province Nakhon Phanom - (Total distance 414.5 km.). Mukdahan - Sakon Nakhon - Nakhon Phanom Highlight: The bike riders’ dream route, which runs along the Route Mekong River through major tourist attractions: Phrathat Phanom Woramahawihan in Nakhon Phanom, Ho Kaeo Mukdahan Observatory in Mukdahan, and Sakon Nakhon City Gate in Sakon Nakhon.

Contact: TAT Contact Center: 1672, TAT Nakhon Phanom Office: Tel. +66 4251 3490-1 Website: www.tourismthailand.org www.thegreatmekongbikeride.com

Major Thai Festivals & Events 21 The famous Bali Hai Pier in Pattaya, Chon Buri, is the venue for the “Thailand Cultural Music Festival”, the country’s first Thailand music phenomenon, where local and contemporary music will meet. The Festival will gather the biggest number of Cultural world-renowned local artists to present their local folk music Music performances and contemporary musical arts. Highlight: Besides music, the Festival is also an opportunity Festival for visitors to indulge in the gastronomy of Pattaya at selected local food shops. There will also be booths for face Date: painting and sticker tattoos. 17-19 July, 2020 Contact: TAT Contact Center: 1672, Venue: TAT Pattaya Office: Tel. +66 3842 7667 Pattaya, Chon Buri Website: www.tourismthailand.org

22 Major Thai Festivals & Events Thailand’s extravagant food festival that offers unique Thai dishes and world-class cultural diversity. Experience Michelin- International starred restaurants, as well as, famous street food from all Street Food parts of Bangkok, other regions of Thailand and Asia. Highlight: Participate in a Thai cuisine workshop, taste Festival delicious food from all regions and special street food menus from Asia as well as learning local cooking classes from chefs. Date: Contact: TAT Contact Center: 1672, 5-7 June, 2020 TAT Bangkok Office: Tel. +66 2276 2720-1 Venue: Website: www.tourismthailand.org Bangkok

Major Thai Festivals & Events 23 The Phuket International Marathon is a race in which anyone can participate as it features five different achievable courses Laguna for you to choose from. The races include a full marathon (42.195 kms), half marathon (21.097 kms), run (10.5 kms), Phuket community walk (5 kms), and kids run (2 kms). The topography of Phuket provides participants with the challenge of International running flat sections as well as ones involving rolling hills and, at the same time, runners can enjoy the beautiful scenery Marathon as the courses take in villages, rubber plantations, and 2020 beaches. Highlight: Not only are there the runs but there is also a ‘Pasta Party’ on the eve of the event at which you can stock Date: up on the carbohydrate to provide you with the energy for 13-14 June, 2020 the race, as well as the opportunity to meet fellow runners. Venue: Laguna Beach Resort, Phuket Contact: TAT Contact Center: 1672, TAT Phuket Office: Tel. +66 7621 2213, +66 7621 1036 Website: www.tourismthailand.org www.phuketmarathon.com

24 Major Thai Festivals & Events Phi Ta Khon Festival is a part of the Bun Phawet or Bun Luang Festival, a grand merit-making event that takes place over Phi Ta Khon 3 days. The most interesting part of this festival is the Phi Ta Khon procession which is a re-enactment of the tale of Festival Phra Wetsandon, believed to be the last incarnation before the last re-birth of Lord Buddha. The story states that when Date: Phra Wetsandon returned from the forest into town, the June-July, 2020 ghosts and animals joined the procession, called ‘Phi Tam Khon’ or ‘ghost follows human.’ Over time, this became Phi Ta Venue: Khon. The participants of the Phi Ta Khon wear ghost masks Dan Sai District, Loei made of colourful bamboo sticky rice steamers, and dress in costumes made of many pieces of fabric sewn together. The Rocket Festival is also included as part of the Bun Luang Festival and bamboo rockets are launched into the sky as prayers for rain.

Highlight: The parade of Phi Ta Khon moves around the city and everyone is welcome to join the procession and dance to the North-Eastern music. For good luck, you are invited to join the locals in the gathering at the temple on the third day of the festival to listen to the 13 chapters of the ‘Maha Chat’ or the Great Birth sermon.

Contact: TAT Contact Center: 1672, TAT Loei Office: Tel. +66 4281 2812 Website: www.tourismthailand.org

Major Thai Festivals & Events 25 Thailand is known as a shopper’s paradise, and this annual shopping extravaganza is organized to provide shoppers Thailand with discounts on products from all over the world. Not only brand name clothing and accessories but also Thai Shopping & handicrafts and electrical appliances are on sale. Hotels and restaurants also offer discounts on their products and Dining services to cater for the shopaholic’s every need. Shoppers are recommended to check the credit card promotions that Paradise are involved in this campaign. 2020 Highlight: Shoppers can enjoy special discounts of up to 80% on products provided by the leading department stores, hotels, resorts, and restaurants in Thailand. The participating Date: department stores in the Ratchaprasong area offer a diverse June-August, 2020 selection of products, especially brand names, at incredible Venue: bargain prices. department stores, hotels, restaurants and Contact: TAT Contact Center: 1672, tourist attractions Website: www.tourismthailand.org nationwide

26 Major Thai Festivals & Events Considered one of the most important days of the Thai people, 28 July is H.M. the King’s Birthday, in which the H.M. the King streets are decorated with lights, predominantly around and the . An alms- Rama X’s giving ceremony in the morning is followed by a festival of music and cultural performances at . In Birthday the evening, the whole nation joins in the Candle Lighting Celebration Ceremony and witnesses spectacular fireworks displays. Highlight: Most of all, this event provides the opportunity to witness the love and respect that the Thai people have Date: towards their beloved King. 28 July, 2020 Venue: Contact: TAT Contact Center: 1672, Nationwide Website: www.tourismthailand.org

Major Thai Festivals & Events 27 The Pattaya Marathon is one of the most famous marathons in Thailand and welcomes participants from all over Pattaya the world. Anyone can join the race, whether they are professional athletes, amateurs, or people with disabilities. Marathon This event features five races, a full marathon (42.195 kms.), a wheelchair marathon (42.195 kms), a half marathon (21.097 2020 kms), a quarter marathon (10.55 kms), and a student run (5 kms). Date: Highlight: The event organises five different races of different 19 July, 2020 distances and levels of difficulty so that everyone can enjoy Venue: the marathon experience. Pattaya, Chon Buri Contact: TAT Contact Center: 1672, TAT Chon Buri Office: Tel. +66 3842 8750, +66 3842 7667 Website: www.tourismthailand.org facebook: Pattaya Marathon

28 Major Thai Festivals & Events Ubon Ratchathani hosts the Candle Festival to mark the beginning of Buddhist Lent. This festival shows the people’s Ubon devotion to Buddhist tradition as well as their skills in carving magnificent candles. Buddhist Lent lasts 3 months and in Ratchathani this time the monks are confined to their temple grounds and dedicate their time to study, meditation, and prayer. Candle Originally, a bundle of small candles was presented to the monks along with other basic essentials to use during Festival this period. Over time, people started to carve the candles into beautiful shapes and in the reign of King Rama V, the Candle Festival and competitions associated with it were Date: established to find the most beautiful candle. The Candle 5-6 July, 2020 Procession, which takes place on Khao Phansa Day, features Venue: the Royal Candle sent by H.M. the King, and the ornately Thung Si Mueang, carved beeswax candles made by the local people. Mueang District, Ubon Ratchathani Highlight: The candle competition features two categories of candles based on the method of decoration – beeswax candles carved on the surface, and candles with molded beeswax attached. The festival also includes a light and sound presentation, cultural shows, and displays of local artisans’ handcrafting and sculptures.

Contact: TAT Contact Center: 1672, TAT Ubon Ratchathani Office: Tel. +66 4524 3700, +66 4525 0714 Website: www.tourismthailand.org

Major Thai Festivals & Events 29 August 12 is H.M. the Queen’s birthday and is celebrated nationwide. This public holiday is also Thailand’s Mother’s H.M. Day because Her Majesty is revered as the mother of the nation. Flags and portraits of Her Majesty are displayed all Queen over the country, and both sides of Ratchadamnoen Road are decorated with beautiful flowers and fairy lights. The Sirikit’s celebration of this event usually starts early in the morning with Thai people going to the temple, offering alms to Birthday the monks, and listening to Buddhist sermons. It is then followed by concerts, cultural shows, and traditional dances Celebration in the major cities, the major venue being Sanam Luang in Bangkok.

Date: Highlight: The most beautiful ceremony of this event is the 12 August, 2020 Candle Lighting Ceremony which takes place simultaneously Venue: around the country on the night of 12 August. The main Nationwide event at Sanam Luang is broadcast on television, so you can see millions of people holding lit candles while singing a song to praise H.M. the Queen. This magnificent ceremony concludes with a colourful fireworks display.

Contact: TAT Contact Center: 1672, Website: www.tourismthailand.org

30 Major Thai Festivals & Events The Phuket Vegetarian Festival has its origin in Amphoe Kathu around 180 years ago when a Chinese opera company Phuket travelled to the area and got sick with a fever. They kept to a vegetarian diet to honour the gods and the sickness Vegetarian disappeared. The locals developed a strong faith in vegetarianism and the annual Vegetarian Festival started Festival up and still continues today. It is believed that by refraining from meat consumption for 10 days during this event Date: purifies mind and soul and brings good luck. Before the festival begins, Ko Teng poles, bamboo with lanterns 17-23 October, 2020 attached to the branches, are erected at all the 18 shrines in Venue: Phuket to symbolise the presence of the deities. When the Various Chinese Shrines, poles are raised on the first day, it is believed that the gods Mueang District, Phuket descend into the shrine at midnight signaling the start of the festival.

Highlight: On the 6th day of the festival, a religious procession takes place around the city. Part of this procession involves acts of face- and body-piercing. Throughout this period, many of the locals wear white clothes to represent purity.

Contact: TAT Contact Center: 1672, TAT Phuket Office: Tel. +66 7621 2213, +66 7621 1036 Website: www.tourismthailand.org, www.phuketvegetarian.com

Major Thai Festivals & Events 31 To mark the end of Buddhist Lent, people of Sakhon Nakhon gather in a celebration which includes a Wax Castle Sakon procession, longboat races, and cultural performances. Originally, beeswax was molded into different kinds of Nakhon flowers and attached to the banana tree trunks and offered to the temples. Gradually, the trees were developed into Wax Castle other spectacular shapes; such as, castles, temples, and shrines. These magnificent wax creations are paraded Festival around the city to illustrate the local skill and wisdom.

Highlight: Not only do you get to see the beautiful wax Date: castles in the procession, but you learn more about the 30 September- 2 October, 2020 culture of Sakon Nakhon by visiting various temples around Venue: the city to observe the making of these structures. Several Sanam Ming Mueang, Suan of the highly-revered monks of Thailand are from Sakon Somdet Phra Srinagarindra, Nakhon, and visitors take the opportunity to visit their Sakon Nakhon temples at this time. Contact: TAT Contact Center: 1672 TAT Nakhon Phanom Office: Tel. +66 4251 3490-1 Website: www.tourismthailand.org

32 Major Thai Festivals & Events People of the Northeastern region have a strong belief that Naga, a large serpent with a golden crest, lives in the End of the Mekong River in what was called the underwater kingdom. It is believed that the Naga launches the Naga fireballs as a Buddhist way to pay respect to the Lord Buddha on the day of the full moon of the 11th lunar month, the end of Buddhist Lent. Lent Festival The best places to see the Naga fireballs are Amphoe Phon Phisai, Amphoe Pak Khat, Amphoe Sangkhom, and Amphoe & Naga Si Chiang Mai of Nong Khai Province, and Bueng Kan Fireball Province, the newest province in Thailand. Highlight: Before viewing the incredible natural phenom- Phenomenon enon of the Naga fireballs shooting up ot the sky at night, you can participate in the ‘Tak Bat Thevo’ alms-giving activity in the morning and watch the longboat competitions and Date: cultural performances, as well as taste the Northeastern 30 September-2 October, 2020 food at the food stalls along the street. Venue: Mekong River, Nong Khai Contact: TAT Contact Center: 1672, TAT Office: Tel. +66 4232 5406-7 Website: www.tourismthailand.org

Major Thai Festivals & Events 33 The illuminated boat procession or ‘Lai Ruea Fai’ event is a tradition of the Northeastern people that has been practised Nakhon for centuries to mark the end of Buddhist Lent. Legend has it that the Lord Buddha spent the entire period of Buddhist Phanom Lent in Heaven and returned to Earth at the end. To pay respect and welcome the Lord Buddha, Ruea Fai or fire boats Illuminated decorated with flowers, incense sticks, candles, and lanterns are launched on the Mekong River in the evening. Originally, Boat the boats were made of bamboo or banana tree trunks and decorated with materials that could be easily found. Procession Nowadays, with competitions to find the most beautiful illuminated boat processions, the boats have become more Date: impressively constructed and decorated. 26 September-3 October, 2020 Highlight: The sight of the flickering lights of the boat pro- Venue: cession is even more enchanting against the darkness of the Mekong River, Mueang District, mysterious Mekong River. The event includes cultural per- Nakhon Phanom formances and street processions in which you can join the locals in performing the traditional folk dances.

Contact: TAT Contact Center: 1672, TAT Nakhon Phanom Office: Tel. +66 4251 3490-1 Website: www.tourismthailand.org

34 Major Thai Festivals & Events Regarded as one of Asia’s premier destinations for triathlons, the Laguna Phuket Triathlon has welcomed Thai Laguna and international athletes for over ten years to compete in a challenging race. The race features a 1.8 kms swim, Phuket 55 kms cycle ride, and 12 kms run among Phuket’s tourist Triathlon attractions. Highlight: The course of the triathlon provides participants Date: with the opportunity to compete amidst the tropical scenery of Phuket; such as, along the beautiful beaches and through November, 2020 scenic countryside and rubber plantations. Venue: Hat Bang Tao, Thalang District, Contact: TAT Contact Center: 1672, Phuket TAT Phuket Office: Tel. +66 7621 2213, +66 7621 1036 Website: www.tourismthailand.org www.lagunaphukettri.com

Major Thai Festivals & Events 35 This event takes you back to the times of World War II through the River Kwai Bridge built by Allied prisoners-of-war. This River Kwai bridge was the part of the ‘Death Railway’ that spanned the River Kwai connecting Thailand and , costing Bridge Week thousands of lives of prisoners and local labourers supervised by Japanese troops. Organised to commemorate those Date: who died while building the bridge, this event features a November-December, 2020 remembrance ceremony held at the Allied War Cemetery, light and sound presentations, cultural performances, and Venue: historical displays and exhibitions. River Kwai Bridge, Mueang District, Kanchanaburi Highlight: Go back in time to World War II by getting on the vintage train and watch the light and sound re-enactment of the construction of the bridge.

Contact: TAT Contact Center: 1672, TAT Kanchanaburi Office: Tel. +66 3451 1200, +66 3451 2500 Website: www.tourismthailand.org

36 Major Thai Festivals & Events Loi Krathong is one of the best-preserved traditions and most beautiful festivals celebrated in Thailand, illustrating Loi Krathong the close relationship between the Thai way of life and water. On the night of the full moon of the 12th lunar month (usually Festival in November) people gather at lakes, rivers, canals, and/or other waterways to set adrift krathongs. These are vessels Date: shaped like lotus blossom made of banana leaves containing 31 October, 2020 a candle, incense sticks, flowers, and coins. Nowadays, the krathongs may be made from other materials; such as, bread Venue: which is more environmentally-friendly. The launching of Nationwide the krathongs is a payment of respect to the goddess of water in gratitude for providing water to the people, as well as an appeal for forgiveness for polluting the water. It is believed that krathongs that float on the water carry happiness and prosperity, as well as taking away misery.

Highlight: Visitors can celebrate Loi Krathong Festival nationwide in such places as:

Bangkok: Loi Krathong is celebrated widely in Bangkok with various kinds of entertainment, and it is organised at many locations, not only at riverside venues. An illuminated boat procession along the and the lit-up buildings and historical sites on both sides of the river make Loi Krathong in Bangkok a memorable experience. The popular places for Loi Krathong in Bangkok include on , Benchakitti Park on

Major Thai Festivals & Events 37 Ratchada Phisek Road, Santichaiprakan in line along the river is the origin of its name ‘Loi Krathong Park on Phra Athit Road, and at the foot of Sai.’ This festival also includes Loi Krathong Sai contests, the Rama IIX Bridge. light and sound presentations, and fireworks displays.

Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya: The Bangsai Chiang Mai: Chiang Mai celebrates Loi Krathong Lanna Loi Krathong Tam Prathip is held at the style in an event called the Yi Peng Festival. Apart from Bangsai Royal Folk Arts and Crafts Centre. Loi Krathong on the Mae Ping River, Yi Peng or Lanna- This festival features traditional Loi Krathong style hot-air balloons are launched into the sky. It is believed activities amidst the magnificent ruins of that the balloons take away trouble and bad luck. Come and the once glorious capital city of Thailand. witness the sight of hundreds of Yi Peng floating in the dark Beauty contests, processions of beauty sky against the light of the full moon. A Yi Peng procession, queens, krathong contests, and cultural Yi Peng competitions, and Lanna cultural performances are performances are the highlights of this also features of this event. festival. Contact: TAT Contact Center: 1672 Samut Songkhram: Loi Krathong Kap Website: www.tourismthailand.org Kluai Mueang Mae Klong is a unique Loi Krathong tradition where the locals make krathong out of a layer of banana leaf sheath instead of banana leaves. The krathong is decorated with flowers and a resin-dipped and sun-dried incense sticks, and floated down the Mae Khlong estuary. The resin makes the incense sticks burn slowly, showing beautiful lines of glittering lights on the river at night.

Sukhothai: Held at the Sukhothai Historical Park, the Sukhothai Loi Krathong and Candle Festival is celebrated in grand fashion. This site is believed to be the origin of this festival. The ruins of the palaces and temples within the Historical Park make for an enchanting atmosphere for the festival and take you back to the past, with people in traditional Thai costumes floating the krathongs on the water. Other activities include fireworks displays, cultural performances, and beauty contests, as well as light and sound presentations.

Suphan Buri: The Loi Krathong Festival at Suphan Buri shows a well-preserved culture and traditions that have been practised since the ancient period. The festival includes krathong procession, illuminated boat procession, and cultural performances.

Tak: The tradition of Loi Krathong in Tak is different from other provinces, the festival being called ‘Loi Krathong Sai.’ The banana- leaf floats are replaced by coconut shells threaded together into a long chain and released together on the Ping River. The sight of hundreds of glittering lights floating

38 Major Thai Festivals & Events Major Thai Festivals & Events 39 Bangkok Marathon offers participants more than just a normal marathon experience. The course takes the runners past Bangkok many fascinating tourist attractions of Bangkok, such as Chao Phraya River from RAMA VII Bridge. The race is divided Marathon into 3 categories with divisions for different age groups. There is the marathon (42.198 kms), half-marathon (21.100 Date: kms) and mini-marathon (10 kms) November, 2020 Highlight: The courses are designed to be scenic so that Venue: participants and onlookers get views of some of the famous Bangkok landmarks of Bangkok. Not only do you see historical attractions but you get to explore the culture of this country through the warm welcomes and cheerful smiles of the fellow participants and spectators.

Contact: TAT Contact Center: 1672 Website: www.tourismthailand.org www.bkkmarathon.com

40 Major Thai Festivals & Events Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya was the capital of Thailand for 417 years. It enjoyed a long period of prosperity shown by the Phra Nakhon magnificent ruins at the Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Historical Park. The extensive collection of ruins and records indicating Si Ayutthaya the historical and cultural wealth of Ayutthaya earned this park recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. World To celebrate this status, the Fair is organised annually and features light and sound shows of its glorious years, Heritage and exhibitions of Ayutthaya as a World Heritage Site, and cultural Red Cross performances. Highlight: Apart from the magnificent light and sound Fair extravaganza, you can enjoy a variety of food, both savoury and sweet, in a traditional Thai way at the floating market, as Date: well as shopping for various OTOP products. 28 February-8 March, 2020 Contact: TAT Contact Center: 1672, Venue: TAT Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Office: Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Tel. +66 3524 6076-7 Historical Park, Phra Nakhon Website: www.tourismthailand.org

Si Ayutthaya

Major Thai Festivals & Events 41 Welcome to the country that cruising sailors tell tales about on their travels, and which is often referred to as ‘the Thailand Caribbean of Asia’. Every year, a lot of outstanding yachts are presented in yacht shows and events where sailors around Yacht Shows the world will come and join. These events are organized in Pattaya, Hua Hin, Phuket, Samui, Phang-nga; such as, Ocean Date: Marina Pattaya Boat show in November at Ocean Marina January-December, 2020 Yacht Club Pattaya, Thailand Yacht show in December at Ao Po Grand Marina, Phuket International Boat show in January Venue: at Royal Phuket Marina, Phang-nga Bay Regatta in January Pattaya, Hua Hin, Phuket, at Phang-nga Bay Hua Hin Regatta in April at Hua Hin Town, Samui, Phang-nga Samui Regatta in May at Samui Island, Phuket King’s Cup Regatta Under Royal Patronage in December at Phuket.

Highlight: Don’t miss the Phuket King’s Cup Regatta in De- cember. Having first set sail in 1987, this classy regatta at- tracts hundreds of sailors for a week of coastal and inshore racing and legendary parties. Also, don’t miss the Thailand Yacht Show in December. It is a super yacht charter show and a key platform to showcase all range of boat and yachts including smaller boats from local and regional dealers pre- sented at the show.

Contact: TAT Contact Center: 1672 Website: www.tourismthailand.org

42 Major Thai Festivals & Events The Phuket King’s Cup Regatta was started in 1987 to celebrate the 60th birthday of H.M. the King, a yachting Phuket King’s enthusiast. It is now a famous annual event that attracts many participants from all over the world to the beautiful Cup Regatta waters of the Andaman Sea. Each year, there are boats crewed by the world’s best sailors in the race. The scenic Date: beauty of the Andaman Sea coupled with the opportunity 5-11 December, 2020 to participate in or observe the race makes this Regatta one Venue: of the most impressive events in Asia. Kata Beach, Phuket Highlight: The event is held during the first week of December, so on 5 December (the King’s Birthday) the crews gather in front of the Boathouse Resort on Kata Beach in a candle-lighting ceremony to celebrate the event.

Contact: TAT Contact Center: 1672, TAT Phuket Office: Tel. +66 7621 2213, +66 7621 1036 Phuket King’s Cup Regatta Office: Tel. +66 7627 3380 Website: www.tourismthailand.org www.kingscup.com

Major Thai Festivals & Events 43 The celebrations to greet the New Year in Thailand are always full of fun activities, including concerts, stage performances, Thailand’s fireworks displays, and a mass countdown to welcome in the New Year. Apart from the celebrations and countdown, you New Year can also welcome the New Year in a traditional Thai way by visiting a temple. The Thais believe that paying homage to Countdown the Buddha image ensures a good start to a New Year and Celebration favourable prospects of happiness and good luck. Highlight: The celebrations to greet the New Year take place nationwide and you can join the locals in welcoming Date: the New Year in major cities such as: 31 December 2020- 1 January 2021 Bangkok: Bangkok is one of the liveliest cities in Thailand Venue: to celebrate the New Year. The countdown event takes place Nationwide in every corner of Bangkok but the major event venue is the Ratchaprasong Intersection in the main shopping and business district as well as the newly opened in Charoen Nakhon area. A variety of stage performances by leading Thai artists followed by a magnificent fireworks display and the joyful sound of the countdown make a good start to the New Year.

Pattaya: Celebrate the New Year at the Bali Hai Pier on the southernmost part of Pattaya Beach. The evening of 31 December will be the highlight of a weeklong celebration that includes concerts by famous Thai and international

44 Major Thai Festivals & Events Major Thai Festivals & Events 45 musicians and a wide range of entertainment Khon Kaen: The Happy Family Party which takes place including cultural and culinary fun. The over a week in Khon Kaen. Family-friendly activities are countdown will be marked with a fireworks being held on Srichan Road by the ancient Khon Kaen spectacular. Gate and there will be lots to see and do including the countdown fireworks display that marks the end of the old Samut Songkhram: Famous as the home year and the beginning of the new. of Suntharaphon, the well-known Thai folk band, Samut Songkhram organises New Ubon Ratchathani: Celebrate the New Year in Amphoe Year celebrations at the Amphawa Floating Khong Chiam and enjoy watching the lantern displays and Market featuring their songs. Visitors can light processions along the Mekong River, as well as other enjoy joining in the songs and dances, as cultural performances; such as, the Bai Si Ritual, a traditional well as singing “Sawatdi Pi Mai” (Happy ceremony of the North-Eastern region. The highlight of the New Year) with the locals. celebrations at Ubon Ratchathani is the release of floating lanterns and greetings to the first sunrise of the New Year at Chiang Mai: Celebrate the New Year at Tha Pha Chana Dai, the most easterly point in Thailand. Phae Gate and down the entire stretch of Tha Phae Road. Activities will include mini- Contact: TAT Contact Center: 1672 concerts by well-known Thai artists and Website: www.tourismthailand.org bands, fun stage performances and displays of the local culture, leading to a massive fireworks display on New Year’s Eve.

Chiang Rai: Celebrate the New Year in Lanna style by releasing lanterns to the sky, as well as watching light and sound performances, cultural shows, and a spectacular fireworks display at the Chaloem Phrakiat Clock Tower in city centre.

Prachuap Khiri Khan: The locals and tourists at Hua Hin join hands in celebrating the New Year with live performances of various kinds of music; such as, jazz, bossa nova, and easy listening before the countdown to the New Year.

Song Khla: Night Parade & Hat Yai Countdown will take place on Niphat Uthit 3, Sanehanusorn, Thammanoonvithi and Chee Uthit Roads in Songkhla’s Hat Yai district. Highlights include concerts by big name Thai artists and musicians. There will also be displays of Ramwong or a traditional Thai circle dance, as well as a massive fireworks display as the clocks strike 12.

Phuket: Colourful Phuket Countdown promises a range of concerts and stage entertainment before the island’s skies are lit up with the countdown fireworks display. Music lovers should attend the Phuket Electronic Music and Dance Festival on the island’s Karon Beach which is playing host to internationally-acclaimed DJs as well as several concerts that will climax in a countdown spectacular.

46 Major Thai Festivals & Events

Loi Krathong Festival

Printed in Thailand by Promotional Material Production Division, Marketing Services Department, Tourism Authority of Thailand for free distribution. www.tourismthailand.org E/JAN 2020 The contents of this publication are subject to change without notice.