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Festivals and events in Bangkok

There always seems to be a cultural or religious event or festival taking place in Bangkok, especially from November to February. The following are among the most popular of these events and festivals.

Coronation Day
One of the most awaited days is May 5, Coronation Day, commemorating the 1946 coronation of His Majesty the King, because it’s a chance for people to get a glimpse of the royal couple.

King’s Birthday
December 5, the King’s Birthday, is another festive events that inspires some locals to turn their homes or businesses into temporary shrines.

That Phanom Festival
Held in January or February, this 10-day festival honors Phra That Phanom, a sacred Buddhist stupa. Devotees from all around Thailand and Laos undertake a pilgrimage to Nakhon Phanom Province.

Bangkok International Film Festival
In February, the Bangkok Film Festival attracts films from around Asia, Europe and North America. The Golden Kinnaree is awarded to excellent films in several categories.

Chiang Mai Flower Festival
Held in January and February, this festival is celebrated with colorful parades and floats decorated lavishly with all kinds of flowers.

Chinese New Year
As with any country with a large Chinese community, Bangkok celebrates the Chinese New Year with great fanfare in February by lighting fireworks, staging lion dances and cleaning the house.

Bun Phra Wet Festival
To reenact a Buddhist legend, people dress as spirits and go around town with wooden swords. According to legend, spirits welcomed the Buddha-to-be when he entered his hometown. Its held every June.

Rocket Festival
During this June festival, farmers shoot bamboo rockets into the evening sky so that rain blesses their rice fields.

Kathin
It’s held in November to mark the end of the Buddhist holy season and celebrated with boat races that draw the crowds.

Surin Annual Elephant Roundup
During the third weekend of November, tourists never fail to cheer on the biggest elephant gathering in Thailand. Their numbers are amazing.