Being one of the hottest travel destinations, the tourism of Thailand is not limited to scenic beauty, beaches, delectable food and religious monuments. Thailand Festivals are a must for anyone who is interested in Asian culture and traditions.
Best Thailand Festivals In 2022
Phi Ta Khon
Phi Ta Khon is the one Thai festival that is considered most interesting. Also known as Ghost Festival, Phi Ta Khon is a celebration of religious traditions, local handicrafts and loads of fun. This 3-day festival is celebrated by locals wearing colourful masks, painted in the brightest colours. Thousands of locals participate in the Ghost festival that is a mix of Buddhist and animist beliefs.
Where: Dan Sai Town
When: Lunar calendar’s 6th full moon weekend
Songkran Festival- Water Festival
The Songkran Festival or Water Festival is another popular Thai festival. Songkran was celebrated as the Thai new year in the past. You can consider it as the most fun festival for every water-baby in the country. Expect to get into a 3-day celebration of water fights. Dance, music, drinking and loads of fun are the USP of this Thai Festival in 2021.
Where: Bangkok, Chiang Mai
When: April 13th to 15th
Chinese New Year
One of the most exciting festivals in Thailand is the Chinese New Year. It’s a popular festival in the official Chinatown of Bangkok- Yaowaraj. The entire locality comes alive with firecrackers, iconic Chinese lanterns and dragon and lion dancers. Locals come together to worship and celebrate by enjoying a Chinese banquet.
Where: Northern edge of Chinatown, Wat Mangkon Kamalawat on Charoen Krung Street
When: February 12
Also Read: Religious Places In Thailand For A Spiritual Experience
Lopburi Monkey Banquet
Are you a food lover who loves exploring the cuisines of different countries? Lopburi Monkey Banquet is a Thai food festival with a major twist. The festival is celebrated in Lopburi where tourists feed monkeys when they visit the place. However, in November a huge banquet is laid for more than 3,000 monkeys who live in this part of Thailand. Monkeys receive a feast of tons of fruits, vegetables and other treats.
Where: Lopburi
When: November
Yi Peng- The Lantern Festival
Also known as the Thailand Festival of Lights- Yi Peng is a spectacular Thai festival. The sight of the entire country adorned with bright red lanterns will mesmerize you. Locals and tourists gather by the side of the Peng River to release thousands of paper lanterns into the sky. The sight of them gently floating away in eternity will stay with you the entire life.
Where: Yi Peng is celebrated across Thailand but Chiang Mai has the best views
When: Full moon of 12th Lunar Month that is November
Boon Bang Fai- Rocket Festival
The Boon Bang Fai or the rocket festival is a renowned celebration among farmers. It is particularly famous in the Issan region in north-eastern Thailand. The celebration includes shooting a rocket in the sky to encourage the Gods to send down rains. Building elaborate rockets and parading around with them is an Integral Part of the Boon Bang Fai. The festival also includes folk music, beauty pageants and local wine.
Where: Isan, Thailand
When: Usually celebrated on the weekends of mid-May (at the beginning of the rainy season)
Also Read: Adventurous Activities You Must Do In Thailand
Wing Kwai- Buffalo Racing Festival
Thai festivals are known for their adrenalin rush experience. Wing Kwai is the buffalo racing festival that is been held since the last century. The 100 meters long racecourse is used for the racing festival. The festival also includes a buffalo decorating competition, buffalo beauty competition, etc. There are many other games included in the celebration.
Where: Chonburi, Thailand
When: The full moon night of 11th Lunar month at the end of Buddhist Lent