15 Best Festivals in Thailand: Explore The Vibrant Culture & Festivities

Songkran, often referred to as the Thai New Year, is a vibrant and dynamic water festival in Thailand celebrated throughout the country. It represents purification and new beginnings as people splash water on one another to wash away their bad luck. The festival depicts the warmth of Thai culture as family members ritually pour water over elders' hands as they seek blessings and forgiveness. Embark on a Thai adventure with a myriad of amazing things to do in Thailand, from exploring ancient temples and vibrant markets to indulging in water activities and savoring the diverse flavors of Thai cuisine.

Festival location: Nationwide

When it is happening: April 13-15

Loi Krathong, which translates to "floating basket," is a beautiful and fascinating Thai festival during which people gather around rivers, lakes, and canals to release floating baskets adorned with flowers, incense sticks, and candles. The ceremony is a way of paying respect to the goddess of water and seeking forgiveness for any harm caused. 

Festival location: Countrywide, particularly in Chiang Mai and Sukhothai

When it is happening: November (full moon night of the twelfth lunar month)

Yi Peng is an enchanting lantern festival in Thailand predominantly celebrated in northern Thailand, particularly Chiang Mai. Thousands of sky lanterns called khom loi are released into the night sky, symbolizing letting go of negative thoughts and making room for good fortune. Combined with Loi Krathong celebrations in Chiang Mai, this event should not be missed. Immerse yourself in the allure of Thailand by discovering captivating places to visit in Thailand with friends, including the iconic Grand Palace in Bangkok, the pristine Phi Phi Islands, and the cultural gems of enchanting Chiang Mai.

Festival location: Northern Thailand (Chiang Mai)

When it is happening: November (full moon night of the twelfth lunar month)

The Vegetarian Festival, or Tesagan Gin Je, takes place in Phuket amongst the Chinese community. Participants abstained from eating meat for nine days as an act of spiritual purification and cleansing. The streets come alive with colorful processions showcasing body piercings, firewalking, self-flagellation rituals, and other mind-blowing acts of devotion.

Festival location: Phuket

When it is happening: October (first nine days of the ninth lunar month)

Phi Ta Khon, or the Ghost Festival, is a three-day celebration taking place in the northeastern town of Loei. The event fuses elements of Buddhism and animistic beliefs to create a lively and entertaining spectacle. Revelers dress up in colorful ghost masks and costumes, parading through the streets as they dance, sing, and perform acts to drive off evil spirits. Choose the best time for Thailand trip while exploration, with the cool, dry season from November to February offering pleasant weather and vibrant festivals, enhancing your overall experience.

Festival location: Loei

When it is happening: June-July (exact dates decided by village elders)

The Phuket Vegetarian Festival is a vibrant, colorful, and spiritual event that takes place annually in the province of Phuket. This nine-day celebration honors the Nine Emperor Gods and is marked by participants observing strict vegetarian diets, ceremonial processions, and daring acts of physical endurance. The streets come alive with various cultural performances, elaborate shrines, and delicious vegetarian food stalls. This is one of the best festivals in Thailand for vegetarians. 

Festival location: Phuket, Thailand

When it is happening: September/October (according to the Chinese Lunar Calendar)

Wonderfruit Festival is an eco-conscious, art, music, and culture festival held annually in Pattaya, Thailand. This four-day event showcases a diverse lineup of artists, musicians, and performers from around the world while promoting sustainability and environmental practices. Attendees are treated to immersive art installations, engaging workshops, gourmet food vendors, and inspiring talks. Discover how to reach Thailand by exploring international flight options that land at major airports like Suvarnabhumi in Bangkok, offering convenient access to begin your adventure in this captivating destination.

Festival location: Pattaya, Thailand

When it is happening: December

The Full Moon Party is a world-famous beach party in Thailand held every month on the island of Koh Phangan. What began as a small gathering has transformed into a massive celebration, attracting thousands of tourists and locals alike. Participants dance the night away under the glow of the full moon to electronic dance music played by various DJs on different stages set up along Haad Rin Beach.

Festival location: Koh Phangan, Thailand

When it is happening: Monthly (exact date depends on the lunar calendar)

The Bo Sang Umbrella Festival takes place in Bo Sang Village near Chiang Mai each year. Known for its handcrafted umbrellas and parasols made from traditional methods using Saa paper, the best Thailand festival exhibits these colorful artistic creations through exhibitions and parades. Visitors can also experience art competitions, cultural performances, local crafts markets, and live music during the three-day event. Plan your Thai adventure with ease by obtaining a visa for Thailand from India, facilitating a hassle-free entry to explore the country's rich cultural heritage and scenic beauty.

Festival location: Bo Sang Village, Chiang Mai, Thailand

When it is happening: January

The Songkhla International Marathon is a highly anticipated annual sports event in the southern province of Songkhla, Thailand. Attracting serious marathoners and casual runners from around the world, this racing event offers various categories, including a full marathon, half-marathon, 10K, and 4K distances. The scenic race route passes through stunning landscapes and important landmarks in Songkhla province.

Festival location: Songkhla, Thailand

When it is happening: June

Boon Bang Fai, also known as the Rocket Festival, is a lively event celebrated in Isan provinces in the northeast of Thailand. This unique extravaganza injects fun and excitement into the local communities as they believe that launching handmade rockets into the sky will encourage rainfall for essential rice farming.

Festival Location: Isan provinces, Northeast Thailand

When it's happening: May

Bun Bang Fai is essentially the Laos version of Boon Bang Fai, also related to rainmaking rituals. Rather than only being celebrated in Thailand, this event spreads throughout the collective regions of Laos and Isan. Known for its colorful processions and vibrant dance performances, it fosters a spirited ambiance while cultivating beliefs about prosperity and agricultural success.

Festival Location: Laos and Isan regions

When it's happening: April - June

The Chiang Mai Flower Festival showcases an abundance of beautiful floral arrangements in northern Thailand's cultural hub. Every February, spectacular flower floats parade through the city streets with intricately designed arrangements that reflect Chiang Mai's appeal to garden enthusiasts. This is one of the best festivals in Thailand that you should not miss.

Festival Location: Chiang Mai, Northern Thailand

When it's happening: February

The Pattaya International Music Festival brings together musicians from various genres to create a diverse and energetic atmosphere. Attracting both local Thai artists and international performers, this free beachside event provides endless entertainment to music enthusiasts looking for a memorable experience. The Pattaya Music Festival is one of the best event in Thailand.

Festival Location: Pattaya Beach, Central Thailand

When it's happening: March

The Hua Hin Jazz Festival is a combination of well-known jazz musicians and local talent against the backdrop of beautiful sandy shores. This coastal event and best Thailand festival brings smooth tunes under the picturesque twilight skies as it welcomes jazz aficionados from all over the world.

Festival Location: Hua Hin, Western Thailand

When it's happening: June