Thai
calendar is a procession of festivals. Spectrum of festivities that populate
the cultural scene of this land fascinates the tourists. Thai festivals are
known for their color, vivacity, gaiety, zeal, feasts and plethora of
prayers as well as rituals. More popular Thai events and festivals are
listed below.
Chakri
Day
Chakri Day is observed on April 6 to pay respect to the kings of the Chakri
dynasty, which has been holding the reins of Thailand since 1782. People
show special reverence for King Rama I, the founder of the dynasty.
King's Birthday or Father's Day
Birthday of the King, immensely respected and loved by the Thais, is
celebrated in December as a grand event. The occasion provides the people
with an opportunity to express their feelings for the king. Building and
houses, particularly areas around the Grand Palace, are decorated and
illuminated.
Loy Krathong
This fascinating festival of lights, celebrated usually in November,
delights the tourists. Thais float tiny banana leaf offerings (krathongs) on
lakes, ponds or rivers. The krathong, usually resembling a lotus flower,
contains lighted joss sticks, candles and some coins. The tiny lighted
vessels bobbling along the waterway are an enthralling sight.
Magha Puja
The Buddhist festival, held in February, commemorates the occasion when
1,250 Lord Buddha's disciples congregated to hear his sermon. In daytime,
ceremonies are held at temples, while at night, adherents of Buddhist faith
circumambulate the temples.
Queen's Birthday or Mother's Day
Birthday of the Queen, regarded by the Thais as the mother, is celebrated
in August as the Mother's Day. Public buildings and houses are decorated and
people pay respect to the queen. Royal buildings are specially adorned with
colored lights.
Songkran
Songkran,
the conventional new year of Thailand, is held in the month of April.
Celebrated all over Thailand with great enthusiasm, it is the most popular
festival of the country. Running over several days, the festival is
particularly known for it's water fights.
