Festivals
Festivals continued (Festivals by Region and dates - page down) .... previous page
Religious ceremonies are normally performed on important Buddhist holy days. These include Makhabuja Day, Visakhabuja Day, Asarnhabuja Day, Khao Phansa and Ok Phansa. The ceremonies, celebrated by most Thai Buddhists nationwide, are officially proclaimed as national holidays as well.
The most important social ceremonies, which help unite people at the national level,
include Songkran and Loy Kratong.
Both festivals are celebrated among the majority of
Thai people and are even recognized worldwide. They hold tradition carried out since ancient times. Anyone can join in the fun of these very special national festivals.
Other events are celebrated only among certain groups of people in particular regions. The uniqueness of these festivals has given them a reputation at the national level, and some are even promoted internationally.
The most distinguished festivals include the Rocket Festival in Yasothon (in May), Poi Sang Long Festival in Mae Hong Son (in April), Phi Ta Khon Festival in Loei (in June), Vegetarian Festival in Phuket (in October), and Candle Festival in Ubon Ratchathani (in July).
Most regional festivals reflect the deep-rooted culture of the people in that region. Many have become annual fairs, which, each year, attract large numbers of tourists.
The government organizes official or royal ceremonies. Notable among these are the Royal Ploughing Ceremony, HM the King's Birthday, HM the Queen's Birthday, Coronation Day and Constitution Day.
Festivals by Region:
