Trang – a beautiful southern province of Thailand – is a world in its own to discover and there’s always lots to do, such as going to the late-night coffee shops or visiting the wet markets. However, the greatest delights are the multitude of festivals that keep taking place throughout the year that unfurl in joyful celebrations of colour and merriment.
The amazing traditional fairs and festivals are definitely phenomena to be witnessed and enjoyed. Full of life and constructed upon strong beliefs, these celebrations fulfill all religious duties in the most entertaining way. Some festivals are not even done for religious purposes; instead, celebrations are carried out for the sake of something worth celebrating.
The Cake Festival, for instance, is where a huge variety of frosting-free, different flavoured cakes are made by the people of Trang and sold to enthusiastic customers with raging sweet tooths. These talented individuals have been baking cakes for decades and they emply this particular skill through this festival, which takes place during the month of August. Some of the delectable flavours include coffee, orange, a blend of two or more flavours, and a lot more as bakers get deliciously creative with their options.
In the month of March is the Food Festival, for which Trang is renowned owing to the mouthwatering array of food on offer. Every type of regional cuisine along the likes of Thai, Chinese, as well as local creations, is sold in food stalls at the most affordable prices and food-eating competitions are held too. It is a true haven for foodies to treat their palates to some amazing culinary creations.
The Vegetarian Festival on the other hand is one where the Thais of Chinese in Trang become vegetarians for 9 days and is held in October, particularly on a full-moon night. These devotees dress in white for the duration of the 9 days and a medium who is believed to have the spirit in him, is given offerings that are kept at the front door of their homes. A procession bearing the medium is carried out in all out glory, accompanied by the deafening bang of firecrackers where the crowd waits expectantly for the medium to display supernatural powers. The blessing of the sprit, good fortune, and virtue are what the participants of this festival gain from it.
The Buddha Image procession and Trang Cultural Festival is to remind the locals of ancient customs and traditions and the importance of preserving them while also passing them on to future generations. These traditions present the quintessence of Trang and the festival commemorating it is held at the end of the Buddhist Lent period. Vibrant floats depicting images of the Buddha are constructed and a competition takes place to decide which is best. Concerts and performances brighten it up followed by local sports competitions. A great way to keep the customs going this Festival should not be missed. Other interesting festivals include the Taphao Shell Festival, Trang Roast Pork Festival (a delectable delight), Moon Festival, H.M. the King’s Birthday Celebrations, the Red Cross Fair, and the list goes on.
If you are looking for a luxury Trang resort that offers easy access to all these amazing cultural events, the Anantara Si Kao Thailand is one possible option. Its gracious hospitality and charming surrounds make it one of the best Krabi resorts to host your adventures in the city.
Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.
