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Thai Culture – Discovering the Vibrant Festivals and Events 

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Being a country rich in history and culture, it is no wonder that Thailand’s traditions and customs also involve certain celebrations that take place during specific times of the year. For those hoping to travel to the country, remember that you too are welcome to participate in all the fun. Here are a few festivals travellers should consider timing their visit for.

Loy Krathong

This is one of the most popular festivals that Thailand is known for. It is also called the Festival of Lights. Loy Krathong is celebrated on the twelfth month of the lunar calendar, locals visit the temple and participate in various rituals before heading to the closest waterway to set their colourful Krathong afloat.  If you happen to be staying at Avani+ Mai Khao Phuket Suites & Villas in October or November, do join the festivities.

Songkran

Festivities for Songkran take place on the 13th of April every year. This is where the local Buddhist devotees pour water on their Buddha statues. They celebrate the festival with a country-wide water fight…although it is all fun and laughter, this practice does have a religious significance. It is believed that the water will wash away their past sins.

Chinese New Year

Since Thailand has a large Chinese population, Chinese New Year is also celebrated in full swing, especially in Yaowarat, the Chinatown of Bangkok. The festival takes place in January or February and during this time, the streets are filled with stalls selling firecrackers and plenty of Chinese street food. Don’t miss out on the Chinese Dragon dancers too.

Visakha Bucha Day

This is a special day for Buddhist devotees across the globe and is a day considered holy by the Thai people as well. It is the commemoration of the birth, enlightenment and passing of Lord Buddha. If you are travelling through the best places to visit in Phuket, head over to a temple to soak in the religious atmosphere on this day.

Loy Krathong – Thailand’s Festival of Lights

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Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Thai culture and tradition with Loy Krathong, one of the most captivating and beautiful festivals celebrated throughout Thailand. Known as the Festival of Lights, Loy Krathong takes place on the full moon night of the twelfth lunar month (usually in November), when people gather along rivers, lakes, and waterways to pay homage to the goddess of water, express gratitude, and release their worries and misfortunes.

1. Floating Krathongs:

At the heart of Loy Krathong are the floating krathongs, intricately crafted vessels made from banana leaves, flowers, candles, and incense sticks. These miniature rafts symbolize the offering of thanks to the goddess of water and the letting go of negative emotions and burdens. As dusk falls, people gather by the water’s edge to set their krathongs afloat, making wishes for the future and watching as the flickering candles illuminate the night sky.

2. Traditional Rituals:

Throughout Thailand, locals and visitors alike participate in traditional rituals and ceremonies to mark the occasion of Loy Krathong. This includes paying respects to Buddha images, offering prayers and incense at temples, and joining processions featuring elaborately decorated floats and lanterns. In Chiang Mai, the ancient capital of the Lanna Kingdom, the festival is celebrated with grandeur and spectacle, including parades, cultural performances, and dazzling fireworks displays.

3. Krathong-Making Workshops:

Experience the artistry and craftsmanship of Loy Krathong firsthand by participating in krathong-making workshops held in communities and cultural centres across Thailand. Here, you can learn the intricate techniques of folding banana leaves, weaving intricate patterns, and decorating your Krathong with fragrant flowers and ornamental details. These workshops offer a unique opportunity to connect with local traditions and create your own symbolic offering to the goddess of water.

4. Lantern Releases:

In addition to floating krathongs, Loy Krathong is also celebrated with the release of khom loi, or floating lanterns, into the night sky. These paper lanterns are illuminated by candle flames and symbolize the release of negative energy and the pursuit of happiness and prosperity. Watching thousands of lanterns ascend into the heavens creates a mesmerizing spectacle that captures the imagination and fills the heart with wonder. You can participate in such events in resorts in Phuket which are bound to organize something memorable for their guests such as the Avani+ Mai Khao Phuket Suites & Villas.

5. Cultural Performances and Festivities:

Throughout Thailand, Loy Krathong is accompanied by a myriad of cultural performances, traditional music, and folk dances that showcase the rich heritage and diversity of Thai culture. From spectacular light shows to vibrant street markets selling local handicrafts and delicacies, the festive atmosphere of Loy Krathong is infectious, drawing people from all walks of life to join in the celebrations and create cherished memories together.