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 With its ethnic and cultural
diversity, Thailand has a kaleidoscope of festivals up and down
the country to attract the traveler. Take part in one of these
festivals to get a real appreciation of Thai culture. Thai people celebrate at the drop of a hat, so there are several
reasons and various occasions to hold festivities throughout the
year. Festivals in Thailand can be roughly categorized into
religious, social, regional and official royal ceremonies.
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 are traditional Thai
festivals, which have been 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. |
