8 festivals to attend when in Thailand

No matter what time of the year you visit, there are always plenty of things to do in Thailand. 🧘While its enchanting beaches and historical landmarks are often the main attractions, the Kingdom of Thailand also offers a variety of festivals that immerse visitors in the country’s traditions and cultural heritage. 

In this article, we will explore some of the most captivating festivals in Thailand that you simply cannot afford to miss. 🎉 These festivals are a wonderful addition to the list of places to visit in Thailand, allowing you to delve deeper into Thai culture.

Don't miss the Ayutthaya Aquatic Phansa Festival when you are looking for things to do in Thailand.  🛶 Held on the scenic canal at Lad Chado Market, this festival marks the beginning of Buddhist Lent with a big splash — literally! Join in on the fun and excitement as the locals celebrate this festive season with a lively boat procession. This year, the event falls on 28 October, but the date varies based on the lunar calendar. 

If you happen to be arriving in August, you might be able to attend the Ubon Ratchathani Candle Festival. 🎭 Add the province of Suphan Buri to your list of places to visit in Thailand and experience this unique festival where intricate wax sculptures are on display. Local artisans create stunning masterpieces entirely from wax, paying homage to Buddhist traditions, making this one of the most interesting things to do in Thailand.

Phuket is undoubtedly one of the places to visit in Thailand, especially from 14 to 23 October, as the city’s streets transform into a vibrant stage for the Vegetarian Festival. 🥕 Deeply rooted in Chinese traditions, this event invites devotees to embrace a strict vegetarian diet and cleanse their bodies as an act of penance. This would be a great time to sample local plant-based delights and explore the colorful markets. 

For those fascinated by inexplicable natural wonders, the Naga Fireballs Festival is a must-see on your Thailand itinerary. 🔥 Every year, glowing balls, known as Mekong lights, rise from the water and create an enchanting spectacle high up in the air. Legend has it that the mythical creature Phaya Nak, a giant serpent living in the river is responsible for these fiery spheres.  🐍

Join the locals as they celebrate with drinks, food, and fireworks along the Mekong River on 28 October. 

Experience the ethereal beauty of the Yi Peng Lantern Festival in Chiang Mai every November as it’s one of the most magical things to do in Thailand. 🌟 During this enchanting festival, participants release lanterns into the night sky, symbolizing the release of misfortunes and new beginnings. As the lanterns float away, bask in the soft glow of the full moon, and enjoy cultural performances from 27 to 28 November this year. 

Held on 24 and 25 November, the Pattaya International Fireworks Festival offers an explosive experience for those looking for new things to do in Thailand. 🎆 Set against the backdrop of Pattaya’s beautiful coastline, witness teams from around the world compete and paint the sky with amazing pyrotechnic performances. Watch the night sky come alive with a spectacular display of lights and colors! 🤩

Loy Krathong, also known as the Festival of Lights, is an enchanting Thai celebration that takes place on the night of 28 November. Witness the waterways come alive with flickering lights as intricately crafted krathongs, made from banana leaves, are floated onto rivers, canals, and lakes. 🎇 These beautifully adorned vessels carry candies, incense, and small offerings as a way of releasing negativity and inviting good fortune.  

Kicking off our festival extravaganza is the Hua Hin Jazz Festival, one of the exciting things to do in Thailand this December, where soulful melodies fill the seaside town of Hua Hin. Get lost in the captivating rhythms, as world-class musicians grace the stage and serenade you under the starlit sky. Let the music move your feet and your soul as you sway to the beats of jazz and revel in the electrifying atmosphere.