At this period of happiness for the time of Christmas and New Year, people who come to shop at shopping centres and malls will enjoy sale & service promotion for all products and accommodation including various entertainment such as Street of Art, New Year Gifts, Beer Garden, and musical performance.

The Bangkok International Film Festival (BKKIFF) is a celebration of the world of filmmakers and artists from around the world. BK.KIFF provides an exciting opportunity for major studios and independent film companies to premiere and showcase their films in Asia, and build marketing and business opportunities across the continent.

The Royal Thai Government and the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) are pleased to present the Bangkok International Film Festival with the theme "Masters to Present". An exciting celebration of new and classic motion picture greatness from across the globe featuring special tributes & retrospectives, innovative conferences & workshops, and tremendous international media coverage.

Ban Bo Sang, the Umbrella Village, creating umbrellas unlike any other. The umbrellas are made from craft paper and Pha Phrae, enlivened by interesting colourful floral designs. The village has a constant stream of visitors; especially during the Festival, when the whole world seems to gather there. The umbrellas of Bo Sang have the distinction of winning the first prize in the souvenir category at a Tourism Conference in Los Angeles, USA-a further testimony to the global admiration of this local handicraft.

Street Fair along both sides of the 1 kilometre long main street going down B0 Sang Village. Shops and houses are decorated in the Lanna Style utilizing the village’s main product, the umbrella, and local lanterns as props. Floats decorated with umbrellas and local produce. Various handicrafts. Khan Tok Dinner (Dinner served on a serving platter on a pedestal or legs, usually made of wood).

For more information, please contact the Ton Pao Municipality Tel: 66 (0) 53338048.

The River of King was held at the first time in 1999 to celebrate the Auspicious Occasion of His Majesty the King's 6th Cycle Birthday. Now, the show I is arranged to perform every year.

Light and sound show including a magical show of illusion, large waterfall, and synchronised fountains.

For more information, please contact Bureau of the Royal Household Tel: 66 (0) 2623 5500 ext. 1120-1122.

In recent years, both banks of the Chao Phraya River have seen major renovations to historical structures and the addition of spotlights, off-setting their elegant beauty at night.

As a result of its acclaim as a royal temple of historical significance and beauty, dating over 200 years, Wat Arun has become a main tourist destination. In order to showcase its beauty, ongoing light and sound shows have been choreographed in the Nights at Wat Arun presentations.

River cruise in the vicinity of the Wat Arun Pier. Light and sound show, retracing Thai history to the present day in Thai and English. The presentations are free of charge if viewed from the grounds of Wat Arun. A fee is I' applicable if watching the presentation from a hotel-operated boat.

For more information, please contact The Riverside Company Limited Tel: 66 (0) 2434 0090-3.

Ayutthaya was the capital of Siam for 417 years under the rule of 33 kings. It was a composite of Tai culture, which has since evolved, serving as the foundation of modern Thailand and the current Thai way of life. In recognition of its historical significance, this historical site was placed on UNESCO's World Heritage list on 13 December 1991.

Presentation of the night splendour of the Ayutthaya period architecture highlighted in the Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Light and Sound Show, providing a glimpse at the culture and royal cuisine of the time

Sukhothai was Thailand's first capital, whose remarkable past is brought to life in the light and sound show. The park was placed on UNESCO's World Heritage list in December of 1991. Mang Khala dance and Khan Tok dinner service. Sukhothai Night Light and Sound Show.

Nakhon Ratchasima, an important province to the Northeast of Thailand, used to be the home of an established Khmer Civilization, which has faded into history. The province is dotted with archaeological sites, artefacts, and remnants of a charming bygone culture. Today, Nakhon Ratchasima is Thailand's gateway to the Northeast.

Guided tour of Khmer architecture within the Phimai Historical Park. Dinner amidst the ruins together with local dance show. Take a glimpse of the past with the Wimaya Nattakan Light and Sound Show, recounting the past glories of Phimai and the Khmer Culture.

Lop Buri reached its historical peak during the reign of King Narai the Great, and is famed for its eco-tourism sites. It is also known for its Monkey Chinese Banquet.

A guide will show you around the Narai Palace in the evening, relating significant historical events from Narai's reign. Listen to music surrounded by the ambiance of the palace; watch the Narai Palace Light and Sound Show. Catch a tram to watch spotlighted historical sights-including the Prang Sam Yot (Three Pointed Tower), Phra Kan Shrine, and Wat Phra Si Mahathat.

At the northern most point in Thailand, Chiang Rai has a cultural tradition unlike those found elsewhere in Thailand and has been blessed with many attractions. The Golden Triangle, a small area in the vicinity of the common border shared by Thailand, Laos and Myanmar, is of world renown. Adding to Chiang Rai's charm is the ongoing ways of life and unique cultures of the tribes living in the area.

Akha Light and Sound Show. Experience the lifestyle and charm of Akha, Lahu, Hmong, Yao, Leevo, and Pakoyo tribes people at the Lifestyle Exhibition Building. Enjoy mountain food amidst nature while being entertained by the light and sound show depicting the Akha way of life.

Si Sa Ket, in the Northeast, has had a long history as evidenced by the numerous historical sites and artifacts that exist in the area, and the local cultural traditions. It also links the Khmer culture of a time gone-by to the present day, and is home to a great number of Lao, Yer, Khmer, and Soay people. As such, their way of life is different from that in other provinces in terms of culture, customs, traditions, and beliefs.

Watch the Si Phao Thai (Four Thai Tribes) Si Sa Ket Dance from the Khmer, Soay, Lao, and Yer tribes while being served with refreshments or Pha Khao Laeng Learn about local traditions as expressed through silk products. Watch the Siwa Ratri of the Si Phuetthesuan Show.

For more information, please contact the Uthumphon Phisai Educational Office Tel: 66 (0) 4569 1608.

Ban Nong Khao is a village dating back to the Ayutthaya period, where villagers still live the agrarian way of life, living in Thai style homes, surrounded by traditional cultures and customs. A visit to this village provides you with a unique opportunity to experience a culture that no longer exists.

Local cultural activities, Ban Nong Khao Light and Sound Show.

The Pak Nam Pho area (Nakhon Sawan) is home to a large population of Thais of Chinese descent (Cantonese, Hainanese, Teow Chao, and Hakka) who have been celebrating the Chinese New Year with offerings to the spirits and their ancestors, since 1935. Apart from the offerings, there is also a Dragon and Lion Parade. In the old days, the Chinese believed that the dragon was a god, benevolent towards mankind, making possible rain, wind, fire, and the seasons of the year, who must be paid homage to as a show of gratitude. The Lion is a symbol of courage, stability and all things noble. In order to ensure good luck, a lion procession is held to chase away all evil. Statues of various spirits and deities in the various temples are brought out and paraded around for general homage.

Pak Nam Pho Spirit Procession, The Golden Dragon Procession, Eng Ko Pho Bu (a Chinese fan dance reminiscent of a peacock splaying its tail), The International Lion Dance Championship Competition, light and sound show, Chinese cultural shows including Chinese opera, Chinese dress.

For more information, please contact the Nakhon Sawan Provincial Office Tel: 66 (0) 5622 7001, the Nakhon Sawan Sports Association Tel: 66 (0) 5622 7444.

Thailand has long been a melting pot of many nationalities, with a significant number of the populace now being of Chinese descent. Thoroughly assimilated into all aspect of Thai society and commerce, the various aspects of the Chinese culture can be seen in concentration in Yaowarat (China Town) and Charoen Krung Road, packed with shops and stalls. Each year, Thais of Chinese descent congregate here to celebrate the Chinese New Year, welcoming fellow Thais and foreigners alike into getting involved. Stalls, music, Lion Dance Contest, Chinese cultural shows, Chinese Opera.

For more information, please contact the Bangkok Tourist Bureau Tel: 66 (0) 2225 7612-5.

King Taksin the Great ruled Siam during the Thon Buri era. Red Cross Stalls, Trade Fair, Concerts, Miss Chanthabun Pageant

For more information, please contact the Chanthaburi Provincial Administration Office Tel: 66 (0) 3931 2567, 66 (0) 39311544.

At the end of the harvest, straws are gathered and transformed into value added products. The Fair was originally conceived as a project to increase awareness of the use of agricultural by-products in 1985. Contest, pageants, and other festivities.

For more information, please contact the Chai Nat Chamber of Commerce Tel: 66 (0) 541 1595.

Phra Nakhon Khiri was once a residence of King Mongkut (Rama IV). Each F year a general celebration is held in remembrance of its historical significance.

Phra Nakhon Khiri is decorated with more than 40,000 lights, and is circled by the attendees in praise of the kings and good spirits of Phetchaburi, local cultural show, demonstration of Phetchaburi craftsmanship, an oxen cart race, stalls.

For more information, please contact the Phetchaburi Provincial Office Tel: 66 (0) 5641 1595.

Flowers in Thailand blossom at the beginning of the year, with an explosion of colour to be savoured in January and February-African marigolds, zinnias, globe amaranths, chrysanthemum, coxcombs, roses, and orchids, from the Laos vanda, an orchid having light blue flowers in large sprays on stems one to three feet long, down to the petite denrobium.

Mountainous Chiang Mai is the perfect setting for this symphony of colours, giving rise to a flower festival truly reflective of the locals' love of one of their own. Pageants, floats, agricultural shows, and  contests.

For more information, please contact the Chiang Mai Municipality Tel: 66 (0) 5333 8048.

The Renaissance King, Rama II of the Chakkri dynasty, was involved in military affairs, governance, up holding the Buddhist faith, creation of art, and temples. His artistic skills also extended to literary works, dance forms, musical compositions, sculpture, architecture, etc.

In 1968, UNESCO honoured him as a major contributor to world culture. On the 200th anniversary of his birth in Samut Songkhram, the Rama II Foundation was set up to disseminate his artistic and literary works, under the patronage of Her Royal Highness Princess Sirindhorn.

Khon (Masked Dance Drama) by Senior and Young dancers from the Fine Arts Department, Hun Krabok (Masked Hand Puppet), local movies, Thai cooking demonstration including sweets from Thai literature, competitions. Sale of local products, gifts, and souvenirs.

For more information, please contact Samut Songkhram Provincial Office Tel: 66 (0) 3471-1997, (or) King Rama II Memorial Park Tel: 66 (0) 26287217.

An old Pattani tradition that has been celebrated for nearly 100 years, and has only been officially adopted since 1996. There is normally a large attendance by Thais and Chinese who make the effort to pay homage to the goddess and other spirits. The Goddess Lim Ko Niao is a relict to which homage has long been paid on the fifteenth day after Chinese New Year. The Festival includes a procession of the goddess and other images from the Leng Chu Kiang Shrine around Pattani.

Miracle shows including carrying a Chinese style palaquin through water,  fire walking, lion Dance, Dragon Dance, and other fun festivities.

The Province of Trang, On together with the Trang  Chamber of Commerce and other organizations, first organized the Underwater. Wedding Ceremony on 20 April 1997 on Rok Island, and has continued to do so for the last five years at Kradan Island. The event has been entered into the Guinness World Records, and is known far a field.

Bridal Procession around the Trang Municipality, continuing on to Kradan Island by long tail boats. Thai Wedding Ceremony (Rot Nam Sang) where 17. blessed water is poured from a conch Retell onto the bridal couples' hands while wishing them well for the future, on the beach. Registration of the marriages 40 feet underwater.

For more information, please contact the Trang Chamber of Commerce Tel: .L 66 (0) 7521 0238, 66 (0) 7522 5353.

Sa kaeo is the new province in the east of Thailand. The province itself is rich with eastern culture. Opening procession, Thai Fashion Show, Trade Fair, concert, Pong Lang Concert, etc.

In order to take advantage of the pristine conditions available: only during these months, the Province has been promoting the white beaches, corals, and 1 numerous islands around the gulf since 1990. Sea tour, coral watching (diving), tours of orchards, beach sports (volleyball, sail boating, fishing, etc), camping, seafood festival, tourist attraction photo contest.

For more information, please contact the Chum phon Provincial Office Tel: 66 (0) 77511551.

The elephant is held in high regard in Thailand and has served as the bearer of kings, in battle and official ceremonies. Since 1995, the Thai Elephant Conservation Centre has joined hands with the Province of Lampang in raising funds to feed elephants in the care of the Centre. The proceeds from this event are given to the Centre to provide food for the elephants, support for the Centre' s activities, and the conservation of elephants. The Offering is held on the 15th to the 17th each year.

Satok is a term in the Northern Thai dialect referring to a serving platter cum table that is raised on a pedestal or legs, and is generally made of wood. They can vary in size depending on the amount of food being served.
Satok procession, including a large satok filled with food fit for an elephant. Processions and local shows. Dining from a huge satok, a night bazaar, sales of local handicraft, local cultural shows, elephant exhibition, and feeding the elephants.

For more information, please contact the Thai Elephant Conservation Centre Tel: 66 (0) 5422 8108.

Legend has it that Phaya Sithammasokkarat, Phaya Chantha-raphanu, and Phaya Phonghasura were preparing to celebrate the enshrinement of a holy Buddhist relic. A few days before the celebrations were to commence a red cloth, the Phra Bot, inscribed with Buddhist writings, washed ashore onto Pak Phanang Beach. This cloth was then presented to Phaya Sithammasokkarat, as the city's overlord. On the day of the celebration, he organised a procession to take the cloth up to the stupa, wrapping it around the structure. The tradition continues to this day.

The populace of Nakhon Si Thammarat has long observed this tradition on Magha Puja and Visakha Puja days. The main activities include the procession carrying a piece of cloth, many hundred yards in length, from the Na Mueang Lawn to the Phra Mahathat Woramahawihan, to be wrapped around the base of the Stupa, the celebration of the Phra Bot cloth and the Pradu Hok Shrine, the procession itself, and the Mathupayat rice (Sticky rice in coconut and sugar cane syrup) stirring ceremony.

For more information, please contact the Nakhon Si Thammarat Educational Office Tel: 66 (0) 75346515-6, 66 (0) 7535 6151

King Narai Reign Fair has been organised in honour of King Narai an to promote tourism in Lob Buri. King Narai the Great, son of King Prasat Thong and his consort, ascended the throne on 9 October 1656 as Ayutthaya's 27th monarch, and reigned for 32 years to 1688. The construction of his palace in Lop Buri took 12 years to complete, and incorporated western style architecture and Thai decorations. King Narai resided at the palace in the dry season, preferring to be in Ayutthaya during the Monsoon. For a brief period, Lop Buri served as the country's capital, when King Narai moved his court there, full time, to avoid internal and external conflicts and to indulge in his passion for game hunting. King Narai died in Lop Buri. With his passing, Lop Buri fell into decline.

Procession depicting the time of King Narai the Great, a light and sound show at Narai Palace, Narai Palace Night, Thai lifestyle show including cultural show, local customs, Thai children's games, children in hairstyle 0 does gone by (Chuk : hair pulled up in a bun at the crown; the area around the bun is generally shaven, Klae : hair in pigtails, the area around the pigtails is generally shaven, Ko : pony tail, and braided), contests, human chess game, other fun activities. Paticipants dressed in Thai costumes.

For more information, please contact the Lop Buri Provincial Office Te 66 (0) 3641 1500.

In honour of Her Royal Highness Princess Sirindhorn's participation in a Pong Lang dance with the students of the Kalasin Dance College occasion of the Four Regions Dance Show on 26 February 1993, the day has been held as a day for celebration with the organization of a cultural festival together in conjunction with the Red Cross.

The Pong Lang dance style involves a troupe of performers playing an assortment of instruments with one or two of the players dancing as well. A typical assortment would include a couple of chest high drums that are placed on the ground and played by the main dancer who beats it to keep time while dancing. There are also earthen jars, strung with rubber, that are flicked during the dance. Other instruments include the Kong(gong), ching(small cymbal), and khaen(panpipe).

Homage to Phraya Chaisunthon, the founder of Kalasin, local cultural procession, Pong Lang competition, pageants, competitions, exhititions.

For more information, please contact the Kalasin Provincial office Tel: 66(0) 4381 1695

Thai sports competitions have been held at Sanam Luang since 1950. The Festival is currently being organised under the "Thailand Grand Festival" Campaign, the theme for March being "Summer Music & Sport".

Various contests including kite flying, Takro-lothuang, Krabi-Krabong (sword- staff), sword fighting, chess, Ska (a variation of the chess game with moves being made in line with the roll of the dice), and checkers.

For more information, please contact the Bangkok Tourist Bureau Tel: 66(0) 2225 7612-5.

Thais believe that the dove is blessed animal that brings good fortune to its owners. Birds with the right characteristics bring wealth and prestige. Some say the birds are symbols of purity, happiness, and peace. As such the birds hay become popular pets, so much so that local cooing competitions are held at various fairs and festivals. Cooing competition in the low, mid, and high pitches, sale of bird paraphernalia.

For more information, please contact the Yala Municipality Tel: 66 (0) 73214898.

The coverage of the Mekong Sub-Region-china, Myanmar, Laos, Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam-is gradually expanding with increased investments, especially in the tourism industry. The main draw card is the Mekong River itself, which is the Longest International river in Southeast Asia and the 12th longest in the world. Nakhon Phanom’s location along this river makes it an ideal entry point into Indochina.

Triathlon-swimming, cycling, and running, and other activities such as local cultural shows, Indochina tours, and the Mekong Food Festival.

The festival is arranged under the “Thailand Grand Festival” Campaign.
Enjoy a variety of music, including pop, rock, dance, hip-hop, phleng phuea chiwit(alternative) music, etc and have fun dancing on Beach Road. Come and Enjoy the summer time.

Mae Hong Son is unique in its natural surrounds, art and culture, and traditions. It is noted for its Poi Sang Long (ordination of novices in the Thai Vai or Tai) tradition that has its root in the Buddhist belief of the thai Yais who founded the town in 1831. It is believed that assisting in It the ordination of novices (generally aged 10 years and above), who are pure of heart, brings the greatest merit to the practitioner.

Of interest are the Khrueang Thai Than and Sang Long processions, the Klong Yao and Klong Mong Soeng processions, and Thai Yai art and cultural shows.

Ranong is blessed with natural resources ideal for tourism including the sea, islands, dive sites, and fishing, a marshland noted by UNESCO as a biological conservation area, a sulphurless hot spring with beneficial properties, traces of WWII, mountains, forests, and waterfalls. It also benefits from its proximity to the Myanmar border.

The festival has been conceived to showcase the many of Ranong's attractions.

Car rallies, fishing competition, tour of the forests, town, WWII sites, hot spring, Pushing a Motar up the Mountain Competition, Southern Cultural exhibitions, Tourism exhibitions, camping, barbeques, local handicraft shows, photography competition, and hot spring and herbal health presentations, etc.

For more information, please contact the Ranong Provincial Office Tel:66 (0) 7771 1123.

The festival was conceived as a means to preserve and highlight Chiang Mai's art and culture. Lanna Tradition Fair at the Lanna Tradition School, Poi Sang Long at Pa Pao Temple, local artists' exhibitions, local puppet shows at the Chiang Mai Puppet Concert Hall, Concert at the Three Kings Monument, cultural tour, and local produce fair. 

Traditionally, the locals would go up to the Phanom Rung Temple for alms giving and to worship the imprint of Buddha's foot on the 15th  night of the waxing moon in the fifth month.

The Phanom Rung Temple is a large temple on top of a mountain (Phanom translates to Mountain, and Rung translates to vast, therefore Phanom Rung C translates to large mountain). It is a religious site built in the Saivite Brahmin style set on top a mountain, 360 meters above sea level. According to records, the temple was built by Hiranya, who dedicated it to his sadhu father, Narenthrathit, in the reign of Suryajvarman II. The structure's construction is dated between 1078 and 1178 C.E. in the same period as the Phimai and Phanom Wan Temples of 1080-1106 C.E., in Nakhon Ratchasima.

When the Khmer Empire was centred at Yasotharapura, there existed a city called Mahitharapura that had established relationships with it. Each city had its own ruling dynasties which were related to each other; Athittayawong in Yasotharapura and Chantharawong in Mahitharapura. While Suryajavaman killed his uncle in battle, the latter's wife, Phupatinatharlakshmi Devi and son, Narenthrathit, were spared. Narenthrathit was said to be a handsome man, well-liked by the female sex, skilled in archery, being able to shoot an arrow on target without looking, and brave enough to hunt down an elephant, cut its head off, throw it into the river, turning it into a sea of blood. For his own safety, he renounced the world and became a sadhu (holy man), building Phanom Rung.

The construction took into account astrological aspects, and was built so that the Sun's ray would beam through all fifteen doors of the temple in a straight line, with small intersections, on the 15th day of the waxing moon in the 5th month.

As time passed, Phupatinatharlaksami Devi, missing her son and grandson, left Yasotharapura for Phanom Rung with Chariya, her Lady-in-waiting, and entourage in attendance. She constructed statues of celestial bearers in all 10 directions in worship of all the gods in the universe. She also gave 10 cows and 100 goats to the sadhu Narenthrathit.

The main attraction of this festival is the fact that it is the only day when one can observe a single shaft of light going through all fifteen doors of the structure. There is the re-enactment of Phupatinatharlakshmi Devi Procession including Chariya, the lady in waiting, and entourage, together with the 10 bearer animals-swan, elephant, cow, rhinoceros, ,lion, peacock, naga, horse, raksot, and buffalo. Up to 1,000 people, in ancient Khmer costumes, would normally take part in the procession. Additionally, there is also the Great Temple of the Gods Phanom Rung light and sound show, and local fare.

For more information, please contact the Chaloem Phra Kiat District Tel: on the 1,5th 66 (0) 4462 8119.

The tradition of setting Buddhist novices atop elephants in a procession around the village comes from the legend of Vessandorn (an incarnation of Buddha) in the Buddhist sutras. On the day Phra Nang Phutsadi gave birth to Vessandorn, Patchainakhen, the auspicious elephant, came into Chetudon, ensuring rain during the rainy season. It came to pass that 8 Brahmins from the neighbouring district of Kaningkarat sought relief from Vessandorn, who gave them Patchainakhen to alleviate the calamity. Vessandorn was then forced into exile in the Himalayas.

This legend sits well in the village of Hat Siao where elephants are raised to be hired out to haul logs in Phrae and Lampang. They only get to rest from work in April coinciding with the ordination festivities, and have been enlisted in the merit making ordination procession.

The ordination celebrations are planned a year in advance, when the parents of the monks or novices to be ordained (Chua Hua and Chua Ai) learn the ropes by helping with the ordination of other people's sons, and hinting to their own son(s)' ordination the following year. The abbott of Wat Hat Siao is advised of the names of those boys/men to be ordained the following year. The necessary equipments are bought. The elephants and the mahout are booked, the entertainment and band organized.

Three to four days prior to the celebrations, the host prepares his home, building necessary extensions and stages, elephant corrals for the beasts that would normally arrive in the evening of the Suk Dip Day (Half cooked) or in the early morning of the procession day. Banana flowers, bamboo, bananas and sugar canes are bought in to feed the elephants.

According to tradition, the Celebration takes place over two days-Procession Day and Ordination Day; three days if one includes the Suk Dip Day. The Suk Dip Day always fall on the 6th of April. The ladies of the house, dressed in local costume and carrying colourful umbrellas, would venture out in the morning to invite all to make merit.

The articles used in the ordination of novices amongst the Thai Phuan of Sukhothai differ from that of the central region in that it includes a Kruai Attha. This is a small loosely woven bamboo basket decorated with brightly coloured patterned cellophane, and contains bananas, cooked rice cakes, khao kiap wao (rolled rice crackers). There are two offering trays carrying rolled rice crackers, sweet sticky rice in banana leaves, sugarcane, bananas incense and candles, and Trai cloth; all of which serves to remind the novice of the things his parents had brought him up with.

Suk Dip Day is the day of greatest celebration.

The novice procession takes place after breakfast the following morning; after the novice's relatives take turns in shaving his head and eyebrows, bathe, and don a white long sleeve shirt with matching pha nung (sarong) (some prefer navy). His faced is also heavily powdered, and in some cases, he is also bejewelled. While the novice to be is cared for, his ride is also preened for the procession.

Once the novice to be and his elephant are ready, he puts on a hat and sunglasses, and gets onto his elephant. He then clasps his hand together with palms flat together. In between the palm he holds onto incense sticks, candles, and fresh flowers. Before the procession moves off, the host hands out straw hats (sprayed or with the novices name on it) to all those present. When the procession ends at Wat Hat Siao, Pho Thao (old man) helps the novice to be down from the elephant and leads him to worship at the spirit shrine on temple grounds, after which the novice to be is left with a piece of coloured paper with a naga engraved on the reverse. Once all the novices to be have gathered together, the procession, novices atop the elephants, continues into the temple grounds proper.

In general, the celebrations include preparation of the novice to be, elephant procession, taking the novices to the temple, religious ceremonies at the temple, and various festivities.

For more information, please contact the Si Satchanalai District Tel: 66(0) 5567 1466.

The word Song kran is derived from a Sanskrit word meaning “passing” or "moving" , measuring the movement of the sun through the twelve astrological signs beginning with Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, and Pisces; each passing taking approximately 30 days through each sign. It takes a year for the sun to pass through all the signs. This calendar is in use in India and the Southeast Asian Nations that have been influenced by India-Thailand, Myanmar, Cambodia, Laos, etc.

The 13th is Maha Songkran day, the first day of the new year celebrations, when the sun moves from Pisces into Aries, and when the lengths of the day and night are equal.

Songkran is an important merit making period lasting three days, being
Maha Songkran Day, last day of the old year (13th)
Klang or Nao Day, New Year's Eve (14th)
New Year or Thaloengsok Day (15th)

The legend of the Songkran Goddess

There is a specific godness associated with each day upon which the Maha Songkran Day falls i.e. Thungsa, Khorak, Raksot, Montha, Kirini, Kimitha, and Mahothon for Monday through to Sunday, respectively. The goddesses are the daughters of the god Maha Songkran, otherwise known as Kabinlaphrom, who lost his head in a wager with Thammabankuman. They are tasked with carrying his head so that it would not touch the ground lest the earth were to be incinerated, or the air lest the rain not fall, or the oceans as they would dry and up. So each year, the goddesses each take their turn in carrying his head on a celestrial salver.

The tradition has long been celebrated in Thailand; the celebrations providing families with an opportunity to get together, allowing youngsters the chance to pay respect to their elders and for the elders to bless the younger members of the family. It is a time of community, friendship, and renewal of ties. The community also gets a chance to pull together in making merit and engaging in other activities such as building sand stupas, splashing of water, and general spring cleaning of the home and temples.

Giving alms, releasing of birds and fish, Nang Songkran procession, bathing buddha images, and seeking the benediction of family elders.

The Songkran tradition has long been observed by Thais over a period of three days, being the 13th, 14th, and 15th of April when the locals would give alms, release birds and fish, bathe Buddha images, build sand stupas, hold Nang Songkran and floral processions, and splash water, as in any other region of Thailand. The most well known celebrations take place in Khao San Road, Bang Lamphu, Sanam Luang, Wat Mahathat, and Wat Pho.

Maha Songkran procession, alms giving at Sanam Luang, various activities around Rattanakosin Island, Phra Phuttha Sihing Bathing Procession, Songkran in Khao San Road, Songkran in Wisutkasat, splashing of water, release of birds and fish, Miss Songkran procession, bathing of Buddha images in general, and seeking the blessing of elders.

The Northeast of Thailand has a strict code of conduct called the Hit Sip Song that normally governs religious activities that also require the making of merit in the fifth month i.e. during Songkran on the 13th, 14th, and 15th of April. The rites will vary from area to area. However, there are elements in common including the bathing of the Buddha image in the central pavilion or a specially constructed cleansing tower. There is also the splashing of water. In some villages, there are processions of flowers to be offered to the temple, and listening to sermons in the evening. Any individual village will take turns to host the processions by providing the meals on the day; however, this practice is slowly dying out.

The Dok Khun Siang Khaen Songkran Festival commenced as a revival of merit making in Khon Kaen Hit Sip Song tradition. Food Fair, local games, floral procession, Miss Kaen Nakhon pageant, seeking elders' blessings, sports competition, release of fish and birds, alms giving, concerts, and Mo Lam Luk Thung shows. 

For more information, please contact the Khon Kaen Municipality Tel: 66 (0) 4322 4031 ext: 401.

For the Northerners the Maha Songkran Day is known as Sang Khan Rong Day (the completion of a year) and is the last day of the year. At dawn, guns are fired to chase away bad luck and evil, houses are cleaned, folks bathe and wash their hair, dress up in clean clothes, and go out to Aeo Pi Mai (relax in the New Year). Water splashing starts on this day.

The following day is the Nao or Da Day when everything is readied for merit making. In the afternoon, sand is carried up from the embankment to the nearest temple for the construction of sand stupas which are decorated with tungs or thongchais (a long piece of cloth on a stick).

The third day is Phaya Wan or Thaloengsok Day. Food is prepared for offerings at the temple in the morning, and to be given to respected elders and to make merit to one's ancestors. The latter is called Than Khan Khao. Once completed, merit making continues at the sand stupas, birds and fish that also are released, stupas and Buddha images cleansed, and Pho trees on temple grounds and villages are propped up. On this day, everyone gets ready for kan dam hua (blessing by water) in order to su ma kharawa, where the youngsters (relatively) seek forgiveness for trespasses against their elders. Kan dam hua continues into Pak Pi Day when a Dam Hua procession, comprising people in local costumes and large bouquets of flowers, is led by dancers to ask forgiveness from elders, village heads, district heads and senior officials (the Governor) for example. On this day there is also the kan dam hua ku  where forgiveness is asked of our forbearers.

The dam hua tradition is a significant part of the Northern culture reflecting forgiveness, respect, friendship, and cohesion. Merit making, Buddha image bathing, Lanna cultural shows, local games, seeking forgiveness, morning market, carrying sand to the temple, building sand stupas, local costume parades, pageants and processions.

For more information, please contact the Chiang Mai Municipality Tel: 66 (0) 5333 8048.

The Northeast of Thailand has a strict code of conduct called the Hit Sip Song governing religious activities; it requires the making of merit  in the fifth month i.e. during Songkran being the 13th, 14th, and 15th of April. The associated rites will vary from area to area; however, there are elements in common including the bathing of the Buddha image in the central pavilion or specially constructed bathing tower. There is also the splashing of water. In some villages, there are processions of flowers to be offered in the temples, and listening to sermons in the evenings. Any individual village will take turns to host the processions by providing meals on the day; however, this practice is slowly dying out.

Traditional alms giving, bathing of Luang Pho Phra Sai (a Buddha image) that is paraded around town, Nang Songkran Procession, bathing Buddha images, seeking forgiveness from elders, water sports competition, Thai-Lao cultural exchange exhibitions, various competitions in the vicinity of Chommani Beach.

The Songkran tradition has long been observed by Southern Thais over a period of three days, being the 13th, 14th, and 15th of April when the locals would give alms, release birds and fish, bathe Buddha images, build sand stupas, hold Nang Songkran and floral processions, and splash water, as in any other region of Thailand.

The most well known celebrations are held at Sala Thai, Samila Penninsula, from the 6th onwards until the 15th. The celebrations are well attended by visitors from Malaysia and Singapore.

Another popular site is at Mueang in Nakhon Si Thammarat where the Phra Phuttha Sihing is brought out to be bathed. There are also the alms giving at the central lawns, and Nang Songkran and Nang Kradan processions, etc.

Phra Phuttha Sihing procession, seeking the elders' blessings, sand stupa competition, water splashing, local games e.g. Khe Lak Yop, head wrestling, Midnight Songkran, Miss Songkran Pageant.

For more information, please contact the Hat Yai Municipality Tel: 66 (0)7424 4777, (or) the Songkhla Tourism Association Tel: 66 (0) 7443 9490-6.

The Songkran tradition has long been observed by Thais over a period of three days, being the 13th, 14th, and 15th of April when the locals would give alms, release birds and fish, bathe Buddha images, build sand I stupas, hold Nang Songkran and floral processions, and splash water, as in any other region of Thailand.

Songkran celebrations in Ayutthaya are held at Khun Phaen's House on the grounds of the Ayutthaya Historical Park, replicating the atmosphere and setting of yesteryears.

Miss Songkran Pageant, processions and shows, water splashing, alms giving, release of birds and fish, bathing Buddha images, seeking elders' blessings.

The dictionary definition of Songkran is given as the traditional celebration of the New Year as dictated by the passage of the Sun, falling on every t where the Phra 13th, 14th, and 15th of April.

The Songkran tradition in Nakhon Si Thammarat is different from those of other provinces, given its unique environment, varying factors, and beliefs.

The 13th, or the Maha Songkran Day, is called the Chao Mueang Kao Day or the Song Chao Mueang Kao Day (Old Overlord or Farewelling the Old Overlord). The gods entrusted with the fate of the land and its people must leave the land that they are in charge of, and congregate in heaven.

The 14th, the Nao Day, is known as the Wang Day (Empty/Free), as all the gods have congregated in heaven leaving no representative on earth. At the gathering, the gods brief all present on the events of the year, detailing the good and bad deeds of those in their charge, and presenting their problems. The celestial committee then reshuffles the various god postings as seem fit. At the end of the meeting, the gods remain in heaven for a social get together in the evening.

On the last day of Songkran, the Chao Mueang Mai or Rap Chao Mueang Mai Day (New Overlord or Welcoming the New Overlord), the gods bid farewell to each other and take up their new postings on earth. Alms giving on the grounds of the Central Lawn, Bathing Phuttha Sihing, Nang Songkran procession, Nang Kradan procession in the Brahmin tradition, cultural shows, local festivals, traditional Thai markets, and water splashing.

There is the Songkran tradition of the Phra Pradaeng area in Samut Prakan. This Raman tradition differs from that of Bangkok in that there is a procession of birds and fish (to be released) in containers held by maidens. There is also the Khao Chae (rice in chilled water) procession where girls pair up to take the khao chae and accompaniments to the various temples in the early morning, and the playing of Saba, a traditional game. The locals would normally dress up in Raman style. The Phra Pradaeng Songkran Festival used to be called the Pak Lat Songkran (at the mouth of the Lat Stream) and is known for its impressive Nang Songkran processions.

Processions, Thai Raman costume procession with some girls leading the procession, some carrying fish bowls and bird cages, flanked by men in round neck shirts and sarongs, set off by a sabai (length of cloth) draped loosely around the neck, hanging down their backs. There is also the playing of the Saba (a Raman Game), and pageants.

For more information, please contact the Phra Pradaeng Municipality Tel: 66 (0) 2463 4841 ext: 129-130.

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Shopping Shops and department stores across the country have goods on sale from 10-80% off. Receive a lucky dip Coupon for every THB 1,000 with prizes totalling more than THB 9 million.

The first Kra Chiao (Turmeric) Flower Festival was organized in 1998 and has been held annually ever since.
Pong Lang band, Khaen band, Klong Seng band, daily life re-enactment, Silk Turmeric competition, Kra Chiao flower painting competition, web page competition, exhibitions, sale of local produce, and car rallies and mountain bike rallies.

For more information, please contact the Thep Sathit District Tel: 66(0) 4485 7099, 66(0) 4485 7105

Phi Ta Khon is a part of the Bun Luang Festival, the biggest merit making ceremony of Dan Sai district. Participants wear ugly, but colourful, ghost masks with very pointy noses, dressing up in quilted costumes with holes large enough to put their hands through. The Phi Ta Khon has his own personal weapon and a Makkalaeng similar to a square bell, tied to his waist. Replica horses, buffaloes and elephants, etc form part of the procession.

The festival takes place over two days. On the first day, a procession carries the Phra Uppakhut from Lam Nam Man to Phonchal Temple. On the second day, the procession proceeds into town. In the evening, monks give sermons on the reincarnations of Buddha in 13 parts.

The carrying of Phra Uppakhut, Welcoming Chao Pho Kuan Ceremony, Chao Pho Kuan Procession to Wat Phonchai. Phi Ta Khon parades Phra Vessandorn into town. There are also a rocket procession, Phi Ta Khon dance competition, agricultural produce competition, exhibitions, and art and culture shows.

For more information, please contact the Dan Sai District Tel: 66 (0) 4283 3209.