Do you know what the perfect definition of happiness is? Having a day off other than Sunday! It is a priceless joy that can’t be explained in words. That’s why I say, “Thai people are very lucky.” They get 18 or 19 public holidays a year, each corresponding to a particular festival in the country. Whether it is the delicious food of Chinese New Year or the fun-filled, water-throwing celebrations of Songkran, each event is worth experiencing.
So, what if you and I belong to the UK? We can be a part of these amazing festivities. Thailand is a hospitable and friendly country, open to all throughout the year. No matter which month you plan your Thailand holidays, there is always an amazing festival to attend. However, the only thing that can spoil the fun is your boss’s call. Therefore, make sure you have no pending office work on your fun trip. Here are some of the famous Thai cultural festivals that might align with your holidays. Have a look at them!
Top 4 Magical Festivals to Attend During Your Thailand Holidays
Chinese New Year: January, February
Why go to China when you can enjoy the traditional lion and dragon dance performances in Thailand? Yes, you heard us right! Every year between 21st January to 20th February, Thai people celebrate Chinese New Year with full gusto. They do so because they have 14% of the Chinese community in their country. That’s the reason you see Chinese New Year in full bloom in Thailand.
Why Attend This Festival?
You must attend this festival because:
- It lets you enjoy the live parades, acrobatics, and traditional Chinese dances that you might have seen in movies.
- You are freely served with your favorite dumplings, sweet rice, and spring rolls by every next vendor or food stall.
- Streets and markets are spectacularly adorned with colorful lights and beautiful banners. It is one of the best times to buy souvenirs and local crafts.
A Vital Tip
Since red is the lucky color in Chinese culture, make sure you have a stunning red dress to attend the Chinese New Year festivities in Thailand. Also, learn the phrases “Gong Xi Fa Cai” and “Gong Hey Fat Choy.” They both will help you wish a “Happy Lunar New Year” to the locals present in the country.
Songkran Festival: April
It is the biggest and arguably the best festival in the country. After all, it’s Thailand’s new year. Seeing the enthusiasm of Thai people at Chinese New Year, you can imagine their fun level at Songkran. The national holiday for this festival is on 13th April of every year. It’s the time when the whole country is out on the streets, equipped with water-filled buckets and pistols. No matter whether it is a local or a tourist, everyone loves to get wet during this festival. In Thai culture, pouring water over each other is considered one of the best ways to wash off your previous sins.
Must-Do Activities for Tourists at Songkran
The following activities at Songkran can make your Thailand holidays meaningful and worth remembering:
- On the morning of Songkran day, try visiting any of the famous Buddhist temples in the country and pour water on the monk’s hands to earn blessings.
- Party all night and enjoy the live music of the Songkran music festival on the bustling streets of Phuket, Bangkok, and other famous Thailand tourists’ destinations.
- Celebrate Songkran with elephants, the country’s national animal. During this festival, many elephant sanctuaries and parks are open to the public. Visit these places and get a close-up with these giant friendly creatures.
A Wayfarer Top Tip
Have some bright-colored shirts and trousers in your backpack if you have a plan to enjoy the water fights during your Thailand holidays. Thai people are a bit conservative and swimming suits are a big no unless you are at a beach. Also, wear sunglasses or goggles to protect your eyes from water and the white paste that people apply to your cheeks as a blessing.
Phi Ta Khon: July
Have you ever imagined a festival where ghosts and spirits roam the streets? You might have seen such characters during Halloween, but the Phi Ta Khon festival in Thailand is something very different. The major difference is that Phi Ta Khon is a national holiday in Thailand, whereas there is no off day for Halloween in the UK. Moreover, the costumes and masks of these fake ghosts and spirits bring more laughter and joy instead of fear.
How you Can Get Most Out of This Fun Festival?
There are many ways in which you can enjoy this fascinating festival. Some of them are shared below:
- Take part in the colorful parades where locals and tourists dress up in ghost costumes and masks.
- Engage in folk games and watch theatrical performances of local artists.
- Have a lot of fun at fireworks displays, which are one of the major attractions of this festival.
What to Consider While Attending Phi Ta Khon?
This unusual festival takes place in a small city in the Isan province of Thailand called Dan Sai. You are advised to book hotel in advance because the city gets filled up quickly during the festival season.
Loy Krathong Festival- November
Thai people get a special holiday on the 15th or 16th of November to celebrate one of the most magical nights, called the “Festival of Light or Loy Krathong.” During this event, millions of people head to the riverside and brighten up the waterways with tiny, beautiful boats called krathongs. Unlike simple boats, krathongs are made from banana leaves and decorated with flowers, candles, and scented sticks. Chao Phraya River and the famous Chaweng Lake would be a great option to release your stunning krathongs and ask divine blessings from the water spirits.
Top 3 Fun Activities for You at Loy Krathong Festival
Other than releasing krathongs in water and lanterns in the sky, you can enjoy the following fun activities during this festival:
- Marvel at dazzling fireworks shows beside the riverside and get the most out of your Thailand holidays.
- Embark on the romantic cruises with your loved ones and enjoy the delicious Thai cuisine under the glittering sky boasting wonderful lanterns.
- Shop local handicrafts from night markets set close to the Chao Phraya River.
An Important Advice for You
While enjoying this stunning festival, be mindful of your eco-impact. Nowadays, many plastic-made krathongs are also available in the market. Therefore, be conscious while purchasing. Always go with the one that is made from eco-friendly banana leaves.
In short, attending Thailand’s cultural festivals can not only help you make lifelong memories but can also broaden your knowledge about the country’s unique culture. However, partnering with the best travel agency can make a big difference. Virikson Holidays, a leading travel firm in the UK, offers all-inclusive Thailand holiday packages at affordable prices. Book their deals today and embark on a fun-filled trip these holidays.
