Major Thai Festivals & Events 2020

Amazing Tastes of Thailand Major Thai Festivals & Events 2020



Major Thai Festivals & Events 3

Major Thai Festivals and Events 2020 6 15P. 17th Khon Kaen International Marathon P. Songkran Festival 7 19P. Chiang Mai Flower Festival P. International Balloon Festival @ Hat Yai 2020 8 20P. Amazing Thailand Marathon Bangkok P. Hua Hin International Jazz Festival 2020 9 21P. Chinese New Year Festival P. The Great Mekong Bike Ride P. 10 22Trang Underwater Wedding Ceremony P. Thailand Cultural Music Festival P. 11 23Krabi Naga Fest 2020 P. International Street Food Festival 12 24P. Pattaya International Music Festival 2020 P. Laguna Phuket International Marathon 2020 13 25P. The 35th ASEAN Barred Ground Dove Festival P. Phi Ta Khon Festival P. 14 26World Wai Khru Muay Thai Ceremony P. Thailand Shopping & Dining Paradise 2020 4 Major Thai Festivals & Events

P. 27 35H.M. the King Rama X’s Birthday Celebration P. Laguna Phuket Triathlon P. 28 36Pattaya Marathon 2020 P. River Kwai Bridge Week P. 29 P. 30 37Ubon Ratchathani Candle Festival P. Loi Krathong Festival P. 31 40H.M. Queen Sirikit’s Birthday Celebration P. Bangkok Marathon P. 32 P. 33 41Phuket Vegetarian Festival P. Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya World Heritage and Red Cross Fair P. 34 42Sakon Nakhon Wax Castle Festival Thailand Yacht Shows P. Phuket King’s Cup Regatta Thailand’s New Year Countdown Celebration End of the Buddhist Lent Festival & Naga 43Fireball Phenomenon P. 44Nakhon Phanom Illuminated Boat Procession P. Major Thai Festivals & Events 5

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

Chiang Mai Living up to the name ‘Rose of the North,’ Chiang Mai Flower organises the Chiang Mai Flower Festival to showcase Festival its beautiful flowers and decorative plants which are in full bloom towards the end of the winter season in early Date: February. Suan Buak Hat Park is transformed into an open- air exhibition centre where you can find a magnificent 7-9 February, 2020 tapestry of floral splendor that blankets the land, agricultural exhibitions, and floral displays, contests, and sales. Orchid Venue: lovers should not miss the opportunity to see a variety of beautiful orchids grown by locals. The festival also features Suan Buak Hat Park, flower-decorated floats that parade around the city showing Mueang District, Chiang Mai the vibrant colored flowers as well as dancers in traditional costumes. 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, Website: TAT Chiang Mai Office: Tel. +66 5324 8604, +66 5324 8607 www.tourismthailand.org Major Thai Festivals & Events 7

Amazing The Amazing Thailand Marathon Bangkok (ATMBKK) is Thailand presented by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) - Marathon following world-class organisation standards. Runners will Bangkok enjoy a unique city-centric course that will take them past some of Bangkok’s amazing landmarks. There are 4 race Date: categories; Marathon (42.195 km.), Half-marathon (21.1 km.), Mini-marathon (10 km.), and Fun Run (3.5 km.). 2 February, 2020 Highlight: The route lets the ATMBKK runners enjoy a Venue: unique city-centric course, which passes some of Bangkok’s amazing landmarks; such as, the Victory Monument, Bangkok Equestrian Statue of King Rama V the Great, and Rama VIII Bridge, before heading to the finish line at the Democracy Monument. Contact: TAT Contact Center: 1672 Website: TAT Bangkok Office: Tel. +66 2276 2720-1 www.tourismthailand.org www.amazingthailandmarathon2019.com 8 Major Thai Festivals & Events

Chinese Chinese New Year is widely celebrated in Chinatown on New Year Yaowarat Road, one of the most famous roads in Bangkok Festival often referred to as the Golden Road and the Land of the Siamese Dragon. Visitors experience the strong connection Date: between Thai and Chinese communities through the magnificent cultural performances that show the deep 24-25 February, 2020 roots of Chinese culture in Thailand. This special occasion is opened by HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn every Venue: year. There are several shrines located in this area, and it is believed that making merit at them during Chinese New Chinatown on Yaowarat Road, Year brings good luck. Bangkok Highlight: Street performances such as dragon parades 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 Website: TAT Bangkok Office: Tel. +66 2276 2720-1 www.tourismthailand.org Major Thai Festivals & Events 9

Trang Trang welcomes visitors from all over the world to participate Underwater in and witness the romantic and fantastic wedding ceremony Wedding on Valentine’s Day. Apart from the registration procedure Ceremony that takes place underwater, the ceremony also introduces a traditional Thai style wedding to the participants. The Date: ceremony starts with a Khan Mak procession, a colorful and lively parade in which the groom makes his way to ask the 13-15 February, 2020 bride’s parents for their daughter’s hand, accompanied by folk dances and songs. A religious and blessing ceremony Venue: also take place, at which the bride and the groom have to wear traditional Thai costumes. Tham Morakot, Kantang District, Trang Highlight: The procession of brides and grooms parades through the city streets to the traditional Thai wedding ceremony. The spectacular ceremony is complete with the underwater registration procedure in which the brides and grooms are required to be certified divers. Contact: TAT Contact Center: 1672, Website: TAT Trang Office: Tel. +66 7521 5867 www.tourismthailand.org 10 Major Thai Festivals & Events

Krabi Naga Krabi Naga Fest 2020 is designed to promote Krabi’s image Fest 2020 as a natural, cultural, and full of tourist events, which are in harmony with Krabi province’s tourist attractions. In Date: addition, it aims to integrate the work of various agencies in creating promotional events to encourage both Thais 28 February-1 March, 2020 and foreigners to travel in Thailand. Enjoy the festival from 17.00 - 24.00 Hrs. Venue: Highlight: With the romantic atmosphere by the sea, Krabi enjoy famous Thai and international pop jazz performers, food and beverage stalls from 4-5 star hotels, fresh seafood, and many more Interesting events. Contact: TAT Contact Center: 1672, Website: TAT Krabi Office: Tel. +66 7562 2163, +66 7561 2811-2 www.tourismthailand.org 11Major Thai Festivals & Events

Pattaya Pattaya International Music Festival is one of the best International recognized music events in Asia to attract music lovers Music and fun-seekers from all over the world. The three-day free Festival 2020 concert featuring Thai and international artists of every genre starts around 6 p.m. and goes until midnight. Visitors Date: can enjoy beach activities during the day before attending the music festival as the night falls. In addition to the 20-22 March, 2020 concert, there are booths selling music-related accessories and food stalls within the concert venue. Venue: Highlight: This festival is regarded as ‘The Longest Beach Pattaya, Chon Buri Music Festival in Asia’ with different stages at which you can enjoy all styles of music; such as, pop, R&B, hip-hop, rock, and jazz, in the one festival. Contact: TAT Contact Center: 1672, Website: TAT Pattaya Office: Tel. +66 3842 8750, +66 3842 7667 www.tourismthailand.org 12 Major Thai Festivals & Events

The 35th Thai people in Yala love the sweet cooing sound of doves ASEAN and believe that the birds bring good luck to the owners. Barred Those birds with qualities specified by ancient texts are Ground Dove believed to bestow great wealth and honour on their Festival owners. This festival features a competition in which the participants come from all over Southern Thailand, as well as Date: from neighbouring countries; such as, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, and Brunei. There are contests to find the most March, 2020 beautiful cage and demonstrations of cage-making, displaying the local wisdom of Yala. Venue: Highlight: The major highlights are the competition to Khwan Mueang Park, find the dove with the most melodious and sweetest cooing Mueang District, Yala sound and the red-whiskered bulbul singing competition. Contact: TAT Contact Center: 1672, Website: TAT Narathiwat Office: Tel. +66 7352 2411 www.tourismthailand.org 13Major Thai Festivals & Events

World The project focuses on Muay Thai and has further developed Wai Khru this practice within its historical cultural context into an Muay Thai international cultural activity. With the inclusion of the Ceremony World Wai Khru Muay Thai Ceremony as an integral part of the revival process, it has ensured that the end product Date: maintains its cultural authenticity 16-17 March, 2020 Highlight: Various activities to observe such as making of Aranyik Swords, performance of Thai martial arts including Venue: the ceremony of paying respect to masters of Muay Thai and pay homage to the late Thai great kings. Wat Maha That, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Historical Park, Contact: TAT Contact Center: 1672, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Website: TAT Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Office: Tel. +66 3524 6076-7 www.tourismthailand.org 14 Major Thai Festivals & Events

Songkran Songkran is the traditional Thai New Year celebrated on 13 Festival to 15 of April, 13th being the Thai New Year, 14th being the nation’s Family Day, and 15th being National Elderly Day. Date: This festival is the time for family reunions at which family members get together and make merit at the temple and 13-15 April, 2020 gently pour water mixed with Thai fragrance, called “Nam Op Thai,” over the Buddha images. The Nam Op Thai is also Venue: used to pour over the hands of the elders when asking them for their blessing. 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. 15Major Thai Festivals & Events

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 Wat Pho 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 Cultural performances and entertainments start late and the performed in Nakhon Phanom at the water-throwing starts after nightfall. Songkran Festival is to create a pagoda with sand, and sprinkle fragrant water over Nakhon Si Thammarat: Celebrate the Thai New Year at Si sacred sites; such as, the Phrathat Phanom. Thamma Sokarat Park and Sanam Na Mueang. The activities Enjoy throwing water at Khao Pun Road, and include making merit, bathing the Phra Phuttha Sihing explore the folk plays and entertainment Buddha image with fragrant water, and watching the at Hat Sai Tong Si Khotrabun and Amphoe Hindu-based Nang Kradan procession and cultural Renu Nakhon. performances, as well indulging in the water-throwing. Khon Kaen: Songkran Festival in Khon Kaen Phuket: Songkran Festival on the Beach attracts locals and features ox-cart processions decorated foreigners at Hat Patong. You can witness the procession of with flowers and beauty pageants. A not-to- the Phra Phuttha Sihing Buddha image along Hat Patong, be-missed place to visit is Khao Niao Road and participate in several other activities, including the wa- (Sticky Rice Road), similar to Bangkok’s ter splashes. Khao San Road, where you can throw water as well as join the local elders who perform Chon Buri: There are two places in Chon Buri – Bang Saen folk dances. Moreover, you can participate Beach and Pattaya – where Songkran is celebrated after in the human wave activity recorded in Songkran Day. This event is called‘Wan Lai’Songkran Festival, the Guinness Book of World Record as the translated as“Flowing Day”of Songkran Festival. The Wan Lai largest human wave in the world. Bang Saen Songkran Festival and Wan Lai Pattaya Songkran Festival feature making merit at temples, building sand- Hat Yai: Hat Yai celebrates Thai New Year pagodas, and watching cultural performances and beauty differently from other provinces of Thailand contests, as well as the water-throwing sessions. with the Hat Yai Midnight Songkran Festival. 17Major Thai Festivals & Events

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

International The international balloon performances from countries Balloon around the world. See balloons in various shapes and sizes Festival which make the area amazingly wonderful. @ Hat Yai 2020 Highlight: Enjoy the “Balloon Night Glow Show” consisting of attractive colours and lights that will bring fun and novelty Date: to the exhibitors, “Balloon Flight Exhibition”, workshops, tethering walking street, delicious food and products of 1-3 May, 2020 Thailand. Venue: Contact: TAT Contact Center: 1672, Website: TAT Hat Yai Office: +66 7420 0000 Songkhla www.tourismthailand.org 19Major Thai Festivals & Events

Hua Hin Hua Hin Jazz Festival invites jazz-lovers to listen to their all- International time favorites and contemporary tunes in a relaxing beach Jazz atmosphere. The stages on the beach feature renowned Festival 2020 Thai and international jazz artists. The sound of the waves accompanying the beautiful jazz music makes for a relaxing Date: ambience. June, 2020 Highlight: You can enjoy the beautiful jazz music performed by Thai and international artists who gather at this one Venue: event while sampling a variety of scrumptious cuisines and refreshments available at the stands along the beach. Hua Hin Beach, Prachuap Khiri Khan Contact: TAT Contact Center: 1672, Website: TAT Prachuap Khiri Khan Office: Tel. +66 3251 3885, +66 3251 3871, +66 3251 3854 www.tourismthailand.org www.huahininterjazz.com 20 Major Thai Festivals & Events

The Great The ultimate international cycling tournament in Northeastern Mekong Thailand. There are 3 stages: Stage 1: Nakhon Phanom– Bike Ride Mukdahan route (distance 166 km.). Start from the seven- headed Naga Statue (Nakhon Phanom province), pass Date: Phrathat Phanom, and finish at Wat Phu Manorom (Mukdahan province)/Stage 2: Mukdahan-Sakon Nakhon route (distance 29-31 May, 2020 155 km.). Start from the Ho Kaeo Mukdahan Observatory, pass the Phu Pha Yon National Park, Khong Ping Ngu, and finish at Venue: the Phu Phan National Park Office (Sakon Nakhon province) / Stage 3: Sakon Nakhon-Nakhon Phanom route(distance Nakhon Phanom - 93.5 km.). Start from the Sakon Nakhon City Gate to finish at Mukdahan - Sakon the seven-headed Naga Statue in Nakhon Phanom province Nakhon - Nakhon Phanom (Total distance 414.5 km.). Route Highlight: The bike riders’dream route, which runs along the 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 21Major Thai Festivals & Events

Thailand The famous Bali Hai Pier in Pattaya, Chon Buri, is the venue Cultural for the “Thailand Cultural Music Festival”, the country’s first Music music phenomenon, where local and contemporary music Festival will meet. The Festival will gather the biggest number of world-renowned local artists to present their local folk music Date: performances and contemporary musical arts. 17-19 July, 2020 Highlight: Besides music, the Festival is also an opportunity for visitors to indulge in the gastronomy of Pattaya at Venue: selected local food shops. There will also be booths for face painting and sticker tattoos. Pattaya, Chon Buri Contact: TAT Contact Center: 1672, Website: TAT Pattaya Office: Tel. +66 3842 7667 www.tourismthailand.org 22 Major Thai Festivals & Events

International Thailand’s extravagant food festival that offers unique Thai Street Food dishes and world-class cultural diversity. Experience Michelin- Festival starred restaurants, as well as, famous street food from all parts of Bangkok, other regions of Thailand and Asia. Date: Highlight: Participate in a Thai cuisine workshop, taste 5-7 June, 2020 delicious food from all regions and special street food menus from Asia as well as learning local cooking classes from chefs. Venue: Contact: TAT Contact Center: 1672, Bangkok Website: TAT Bangkok Office: Tel. +66 2276 2720-1 www.tourismthailand.org 23Major Thai Festivals & Events

Laguna The Phuket International Marathon is a race in which anyone Phuket can participate as it features five different achievable courses International for you to choose from. The races include a full marathon Marathon (42.195 kms), half marathon (21.097 kms), run (10.5 kms), 2020 community walk (5 kms), and kids run (2 kms). The topography of Phuket provides participants with the challenge of Date: running flat sections as well as ones involving rolling hills and, at the same time, runners can enjoy the beautiful scenery 13-14 June, 2020 as the courses take in villages, rubber plantations, and beaches. Venue: Highlight: Not only are there the runs but there is also a Laguna Beach Resort, Phuket ‘Pasta Party’ on the eve of the event at which you can stock up on the carbohydrate to provide you with the energy for the race, as well as the opportunity to meet fellow runners. Contact: TAT Contact Center: 1672, Website: TAT Phuket Office: Tel. +66 7621 2213, +66 7621 1036 www.tourismthailand.org www.phuketmarathon.com 24 Major Thai Festivals & Events

Phi Ta Khon Phi Ta Khon Festival is a part of the Bun Phawet or Bun Luang Festival Festival, a grand merit-making event that takes place over 3 days. The most interesting part of this festival is the Phi Date: Ta Khon procession which is a re-enactment of the tale of Phra Wetsandon, believed to be the last incarnation before June-July, 2020 the last re-birth of Lord Buddha. The story states that when Phra Wetsandon returned from the forest into town, the Venue: ghosts and animals joined the procession, called ‘Phi Tam Khon’or ‘ghost follows human.’Over time, this became Phi Ta Dan Sai District, Loei Khon. The participants of the Phi Ta Khon wear ghost masks 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, Website: TAT Loei Office: Tel. +66 4281 2812 www.tourismthailand.org 25Major Thai Festivals & Events

Thailand Thailand is known as a shopper’s paradise, and this annual Shopping & shopping extravaganza is organized to provide shoppers Dining with discounts on products from all over the world. Not Paradise only brand name clothing and accessories but also Thai 2020 handicrafts and electrical appliances are on sale. Hotels and restaurants also offer discounts on their products and Date: services to cater for the shopaholic’s every need. Shoppers are recommended to check the credit card promotions that June-August, 2020 are involved in this campaign. Venue: Highlight: Shoppers can enjoy special discounts of up to 80% on products provided by the leading department stores, department stores, hotels, hotels, resorts, and restaurants in Thailand. The participating restaurants and department stores in the Ratchaprasong area offer a diverse tourist attractions selection of products, especially brand names, at incredible nationwide bargain prices. Contact: TAT Contact Center: 1672, Website: www.tourismthailand.org 26 Major Thai Festivals & Events

H.M. the King Considered one of the most important days of the Thai Rama X’s people, 28 July is H.M. the King’s Birthday, in which the Birthday streets are decorated with lights, predominantly around Celebration Ratchadamnoen Avenue and the Grand Palace. An alms- giving ceremony in the morning is followed by a festival Date: of music and cultural performances at Sanam Luang. In the evening, the whole nation joins in the Candle Lighting 28 July, 2020 Ceremony and witnesses spectacular fireworks displays. Venue: Highlight: Most of all, this event provides the opportunity to witness the love and respect that the Thai people have Nationwide towards their beloved King. Contact: TAT Contact Center: 1672, Website: www.tourismthailand.org 27Major Thai Festivals & Events

Pattaya The Pattaya Marathon is one of the most famous marathons Marathon in Thailand and welcomes participants from all over 2020 the world. Anyone can join the race, whether they are professional athletes, amateurs, or people with disabilities. Date: This event features five races, a full marathon (42.195 kms.), a wheelchair marathon (42.195 kms), a half marathon (21.097 19 July, 2020 kms), a quarter marathon (10.55 kms), and a student run (5 kms). Venue: Highlight: The event organises five different races of different Pattaya, Chon Buri distances and levels of difficulty so that everyone can enjoy the marathon experience. Contact: TAT Contact Center: 1672, Website: TAT Chon Buri Office: Tel. +66 3842 8750, +66 3842 7667 www.tourismthailand.org facebook: Pattaya Marathon 28 Major Thai Festivals & Events

Ubon Ubon Ratchathani hosts the Candle Festival to mark the Ratchathani beginning of Buddhist Lent. This festival shows the people’s Candle devotion to Buddhist tradition as well as their skills in carving Festival magnificent candles. Buddhist Lent lasts 3 months and in this time the monks are confined to their temple grounds Date: and dedicate their time to study, meditation, and prayer. Originally, a bundle of small candles was presented to 5-6 July, 2020 the monks along with other basic essentials to use during this period. Over time, people started to carve the candles Venue: into beautiful shapes and in the reign of King Rama V, the Candle Festival and competitions associated with it were Thung Si Mueang, established to find the most beautiful candle. The Candle Mueang District, Procession, which takes place on Khao Phansa Day, features Ubon Ratchathani the Royal Candle sent by H.M. the King, and the ornately carved beeswax candles made by the local people. 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, Website: TAT Ubon Ratchathani Office: Tel. +66 4524 3700, +66 4525 0714 www.tourismthailand.org 29Major Thai Festivals & Events

H.M. August 12 is H.M. the Queen’s birthday and is celebrated Queen nationwide. This public holiday is also Thailand’s Mother’s Sirikit’s Day because Her Majesty is revered as the mother of the Birthday nation. Flags and portraits of Her Majesty are displayed all Celebration over the country, and both sides of Ratchadamnoen Road are decorated with beautiful flowers and fairy lights. The Date: celebration of this event usually starts early in the morning with Thai people going to the temple, offering alms to 12 August, 2020 the monks, and listening to Buddhist sermons. It is then followed by concerts, cultural shows, and traditional dances Venue: in the major cities, the major venue being Sanam Luang in Bangkok. Nationwide Highlight: The most beautiful ceremony of this event is the Candle Lighting Ceremony which takes place simultaneously around the country on the night of 12 August. The main 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

Phuket The Phuket Vegetarian Festival has its origin in Amphoe Vegetarian Kathu around 180 years ago when a Chinese opera company Festival travelled to the area and got sick with a fever. They kept to a vegetarian diet to honour the gods and the sickness Date: disappeared. The locals developed a strong faith in vegetarianism and the annual Vegetarian Festival started 17-23 October, 2020 up and still continues today. It is believed that by refraining from meat consumption for 10 days during this event Venue: purifies mind and soul and brings good luck. Before the festival begins, Ko Teng poles, bamboo with lanterns Various Chinese Shrines, attached to the branches, are erected at all the 18 shrines in Mueang District, Phuket Phuket to symbolise the presence of the deities. When the poles are raised on the first day, it is believed that the gods 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, Website: TAT Phuket Office: Tel. +66 7621 2213, +66 7621 1036 www.tourismthailand.org, www.phuketvegetarian.com 31Major Thai Festivals & Events

Sakon To mark the end of Buddhist Lent, people of Sakhon Nakhon Nakhon gather in a celebration which includes a Wax Castle Wax Castle procession, longboat races, and cultural performances. Festival Originally, beeswax was molded into different kinds of flowers and attached to the banana tree trunks and offered Date: to the temples. Gradually, the trees were developed into other spectacular shapes; such as, castles, temples, and 30 September- 2 October, 2020 shrines. These magnificent wax creations are paraded around the city to illustrate the local skill and wisdom. Venue: Highlight: Not only do you get to see the beautiful wax Sanam Ming Mueang, Suan castles in the procession, but you learn more about the Somdet Phra Srinagarindra, culture of Sakon Nakhon by visiting various temples around Sakon Nakhon the city to observe the making of these structures. Several of the highly-revered monks of Thailand are from Sakon Nakhon, and visitors take the opportunity to visit their temples at this time. Contact: TAT Contact Center: 1672 Website: TAT Nakhon Phanom Office: Tel. +66 4251 3490-1 www.tourismthailand.org 32 Major Thai Festivals & Events

End of the People of the Northeastern region have a strong belief Buddhist that Naga, a large serpent with a golden crest, lives in the Lent Festival Mekong River in what was called the underwater kingdom. & Naga It is believed that the Naga launches the Naga fireballs as a Fireball way to pay respect to the Lord Buddha on the day of the full Phenomenon moon of the 11th lunar month, the end of Buddhist Lent. The best places to see the Naga fireballs are Amphoe Phon Date: Phisai, Amphoe Pak Khat, Amphoe Sangkhom, and Amphoe Si Chiang Mai of Nong Khai Province, and Bueng Kan 30 September-2 October, 2020 Province, the newest province in Thailand. Venue: Highlight: Before viewing the incredible natural phenom- enon of the Naga fireballs shooting up to the sky at night, Mekong River, Nong Khai you can participate in the‘Tak Bat Thevo’alms-giving activity in the morning and watch the longboat competitions and cultural performances, as well as taste the Northeastern food at the food stalls along the street. Contact: TAT Contact Center: 1672, Website: TAT Udon Thani Office: Tel. +66 4232 5406-7 www.tourismthailand.org 33Major Thai Festivals & Events

Nakhon The illuminated boat procession or ‘Lai Ruea Fai’ event is a Phanom tradition of the Northeastern people that has been practised Illuminated for centuries to mark the end of Buddhist Lent. Legend has Boat it that the Lord Buddha spent the entire period of Buddhist Procession Lent in Heaven and returned to Earth at the end. To pay respect and welcome the Lord Buddha, Ruea Fai or fire boats Date: decorated with flowers, incense sticks, candles, and lanterns are launched on the Mekong River in the evening. Originally, 26 September-3 October, 2020 the boats were made of bamboo or banana tree trunks and decorated with materials that could be easily found. Venue: Nowadays, with competitions to find the most beautiful illuminated boat processions, the boats have become more Mekong River, Mueang District, impressively constructed and decorated. Nakhon Phanom Highlight: The sight of the flickering lights of the boat pro- cession is even more enchanting against the darkness of the mysterious Mekong River. The event includes cultural per- formances and street processions in which you can join the locals in performing the traditional folk dances. Contact: TAT Contact Center: 1672, Website: TAT Nakhon Phanom Office: Tel. +66 4251 3490-1 www.tourismthailand.org 34 Major Thai Festivals & Events

Laguna Regarded as one of Asia’s premier destinations for Phuket triathlons, the Laguna Phuket Triathlon has welcomed Thai Triathlon and international athletes for over ten years to compete in a challenging race. The race features a 1.8 kms swim, Date: 55 kms cycle ride, and 12 kms run among Phuket’s tourist attractions. November, 2020 Highlight: The course of the triathlon provides participants Venue: with the opportunity to compete amidst the tropical scenery of Phuket; such as, along the beautiful beaches and through Hat Bang Tao, Thalang District, scenic countryside and rubber plantations. Phuket Contact: TAT Contact Center: 1672, Website: TAT Phuket Office: Tel. +66 7621 2213, +66 7621 1036 www.tourismthailand.org www.lagunaphukettri.com 35Major Thai Festivals & Events

River Kwai This event takes you back to the times of World War II through Bridge Week the River Kwai Bridge built by Allied prisoners-of-war. This bridge was the part of the ‘Death Railway’ that spanned Date: the River Kwai connecting Thailand and Myanmar, costing thousands of lives of prisoners and local labourers supervised November-December, 2020 by Japanese troops. Organised to commemorate those who died while building the bridge, this event features a Venue: remembrance ceremony held at the Allied War Cemetery, light and sound presentations, cultural performances, and River Kwai Bridge, historical displays and exhibitions. 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, Website: TAT Kanchanaburi Office: Tel. +66 3451 1200, +66 3451 2500 www.tourismthailand.org 36 Major Thai Festivals & Events

Loi Krathong Loi Krathong is one of the best-preserved traditions and Festival most beautiful festivals celebrated in Thailand, illustrating the close relationship between the Thai way of life and water. Date: On the night of the full moon of the 12th lunar month (usually in November) people gather at lakes, rivers, canals, and/or 31 October, 2020 other waterways to set adrift krathongs. These are vessels shaped like lotus blossom made of banana leaves containing Venue: a candle, incense sticks, flowers, and coins. Nowadays, the krathongs may be made from other materials; such as, bread Nationwide which is more environmentally-friendly. The launching of 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 Chao Phraya River 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 Benchasiri Park on Sukhumvit Road, Benchakitti Park on 37Major Thai Festivals & Events

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

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Bangkok Bangkok Marathon offers participants more than just a normal Marathon marathon experience. The course takes the runners past many fascinating tourist attractions of Bangkok, such as Date: Chao Phraya River from RAMA VII Bridge. The race is divided into 3 categories with divisions for different age groups. November, 2020 There is the marathon (42.198 kms), half-marathon (21.100 kms) and mini-marathon (10 kms) Venue: Highlight: The courses are designed to be scenic so that Bangkok participants and onlookers get views of some of the famous 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 Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya was the capital of Thailand for 417 Si Ayutthaya years. It enjoyed a long period of prosperity shown by the World magnificent ruins at the Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Historical Heritage and Park. The extensive collection of ruins and records indicating Red Cross the historical and cultural wealth of Ayutthaya earned Fair this park recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. To celebrate this status, the Fair is organised annually Date: and features light and sound shows of its glorious years, exhibitions of Ayutthaya as a World Heritage Site, and cultural 28 February-8 March, 2020 performances. Venue: Highlight: Apart from the magnificent light and sound extravaganza, you can enjoy a variety of food, both savoury Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya and sweet, in a traditional Thai way at the floating market, as Historical Park, Phra Nakhon well as shopping for various OTOP products. Si Ayutthaya Contact: TAT Contact Center: 1672, Website: TAT Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Office: Tel. +66 3524 6076-7 www.tourismthailand.org 41Major Thai Festivals & Events

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

Phuket King’s The Phuket King’s Cup Regatta was started in 1987 to Cup Regatta celebrate the 60th birthday of H.M. the King, a yachting enthusiast. It is now a famous annual event that attracts Date: many participants from all over the world to the beautiful waters of the Andaman Sea. Each year, there are boats 5-11 December, 2020 crewed by the world’s best sailors in the race. The scenic beauty of the Andaman Sea coupled with the opportunity Venue: to participate in or observe the race makes this Regatta one 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, Website: TAT Phuket Office: Tel. +66 7621 2213, +66 7621 1036 Phuket King’s Cup Regatta Office: Tel. +66 7627 3380 www.tourismthailand.org www.kingscup.com 43Major Thai Festivals & Events

Thailand’s The celebrations to greet the New Year in Thailand are always New Year full of fun activities, including concerts, stage performances, Countdown fireworks displays, and a mass countdown to welcome in the Celebration New Year. Apart from the celebrations and countdown, you can also welcome the New Year in a traditional Thai way by Date: visiting a temple. The Thais believe that paying homage to the Buddha image ensures a good start to a New Year and 31 December 2020- favourable prospects of happiness and good luck. 1 January 2021 Highlight: The celebrations to greet the New Year take Venue: place nationwide and you can join the locals in welcoming the New Year in major cities such as: Nationwide Bangkok: Bangkok is one of the liveliest cities in Thailand 44 Major Thai Festivals & Events to celebrate the New Year. The countdown event takes place 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 ICONSIAM 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

45Major Thai Festivals & Events

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 NewYear 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 Chiang Rai 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 & HatYai 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.