Joanna James
The capital of Thailand, Bangkok is one of the most visited destinations in the world with good reason as it has plenty to offer in terms of fun, culture, entertainment, and history. One of the best ways to experience all four of these aspects is to experience its many festivals. Here are the top five!
The colourful Chinese New Year is among Bangkok’s best-loved festivals with much cultural significance behind it. During this festival, the city’s iconic Chinatown comes alive with an influx of crowds taking to the streets to celebrate, light firecrackers and dragon dance performances. Outside of Chinatown, almost all shopping malls and Chinese restaurants organisation special Chinese New Year celebrations which include everything from free cultural performances to massive sales – so do make it a point to keep an eye out for some fantastic festival discounts! The festival takes place from January to February with the exact dates based on the calculations from the Chinese Lunar Calendar.
Taking place every year from the 13th to the 15th of April every year without fail, the immensely fun Songkran Festival is marked with lots of water games and splashy fun. In a symbolic sense, it is meant to wash away the previous year so the Thai people can get ready for the next one. During this time, the bustling streets of Bangkok are transformed into street parties with plenty of loud music and become one giant friendly water fight! All you have to do is collect water in squirt guns, buckets, or anything you can find and splash anyone who comes your way. As this festival is considered a great traveller experience many hotels such as Pathumwan Princess Hotel which is considered the best family room hotel in Bangkok offers great rates and discounts during this time.
Not only celebrated in Bangkok but across Thailand and neighbouring countries such as Laos, Loy Krathon takes place early evening on the full moon of the 12th month according to the country’s lunar calendar. Do note that the exact date of the festival changes every year. During this time a Krathong – a small floating container made out of leaves carrying a traditional Thai dish is floated down a river to pay respect to the Goddess of Water.
Locally known as the Jae Festival, Thailand’s Vegetarian Festival is a nine-day food festival celebrated all over the country. Also referred to as the Nine Emperor Gods Festival, during this time Bangkok’s Thai community stays away from animal products and embrace strict vegetarianism. They also avoid cooking with pungent vegetables such as onions and garlic. The festival symbols a period of purification of both the mind and body.
The grand Ubon Ratchathani Candle Festival, traditionally observed in July each year, marks the joyful arrival of Thailand's monsoon season. Rooted in deep traditions and religious significance, this extravagant festival coincides with two significant Buddhist occasions: Asalha Bucha and Khao Phansa. Asalha Bucha commemorates the Lord Buddha's inaugural sermon, while Khao Phansa signals the beginning of Vassa, a period of monastic retreat. Together, these events form the foundation for the vibrant and culturally rich Ubon Ratchathani Candle Festival.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
