Countries all over Asia are known for having some of the most colorful, elaborate and fun filled festivals on earth. There are festivals that are based on religion and then there are those that commemorate an important event in the country’s history.
Thailand is quite famous for the number of festivals that are held there every year, aside from the national festivals that are celebrated all throughout the country, it also boasts of having regional festivals that are no less colorful or significant. In fact, regional festivals in Thailand are far more in number compared to the national festivals. Festivals are held in the country all year round, there is not a month in the calendar year where there are no festivals to celebrate or commemorate. This means that no matter what month you plan your trip to Thailand you will definitely find a festival that you can attend or participate in. Some of the more memorable festivals in Thailand are:
Songkran – The Thai New Year is one of the most fun filled festivals in the country. During the celebration of this festival the whole of Thailand becomes a battle zone – a field where people will try to get others wet. The origins of the festival are far more peaceful though as it was originally about sprinkling water on the hands of elders as a sign of respect. The water sprinkling has now devolved into hard core dousing as bucketfuls of water are thrown at other people. Tourists will definitely have to try this fun festival.
Loy Krathong Festival – this happens during the last night of the full moon during the month of November. People celebrate this particular festival by going to rivers and canals and floating miniature boats that are made of cork and banana leaves. These little boards, which are called kratongs, are seen as vehicles that will bring their gratitude as well as their prayers to the gods. Every single kratong contains three essential things – a flower, three incense sticks and a candle. It is breathtaking to see thousands of these kratongs slowly floating away in a river is just breath taking.
Macha Bucha – This is actually a Buddhist festival, probably one of the most important Buddhist celebration throughout the year. Macha Bucha Day, which is not entirely a festival, is held during the full moon day of the third month in the lunar calendar. During this day, worshippers would walk around the temple three times as a way of acquiring divine merits.
The Grand Sale – this is not a festival but a modern day event – and probably one of those events that have made Thailand a great tourist destination is the Amazing Thailand Grand Sale. This annual event is basically a great day for shopping as prices in practically all establishments as a way of attracting more tourists into the country. So far, this event has been delivering the goods as it has really resulted in the increase in tourist arrivals in Thailand over the last few years.