Top Festivals and Seasonal Events in Thailand You Can't Miss

Songkran – Thai New Year

Songkran might be the most famous festival in Thailand. It’s the celebration of the Thai New Year and takes place every April. What’s special about Songkran? It’s a giant water fight! Locals and tourists line the streets with water guns, buckets, and hoses to soak everyone who passes by.

This festival is rooted in tradition, originally marking the beginning of a new year with the symbolic washing away of sins. If you’re in places like Chiang Mai or Bangkok, be ready to get wet. Songkran lasts for several days, so if you’re in Thailand during this time, there’s no escaping the fun!

When: April 13-15

You’ll find parties across the entire country, but some of the best are in Chiang Mai, Bangkok’s Khao San Road, or even in Phuket’s Patong Beach. It’s a great way to beat the heat and join fully in Thai culture.

Loy Krathong and Yi Peng

Loy Krathong and Yi Peng are celebrated at the same time in November. Loy Krathong is all about floating krathongs (decorative floats with candles) on rivers, while Yi Peng is about releasing lanterns into the sky. Both festivals are incredibly picturesque.

Yi Peng is mostly celebrated in Northern Thailand, especially in Chiang Mai. Thousands of paper lanterns fill the night sky, creating a magical and serene atmosphere. Meanwhile, Loy Krathong happens throughout Thailand as locals and tourists place their krathongs in lakes or rivers, offering thanks to the water goddess.

When: November (Exact date depends on the lunar calendar)

Chiang Mai is the top spot for seeing both festivals. Although the highlight is the lantern release, don’t miss the parades, dance shows, or the firework displays either.

Vegetarian Festival – Phuket

The Vegetarian Festival is a unique and somewhat intense experience. Occurring mostly in Phuket, this Taoist event is not just about avoiding meat. Participants believe their body gets cleansed during this period, and to show their devotion, some take part in extreme body piercings and acts of self-mortification. It’s certainly not for the faint-hearted.

Apart from its visual shock factor, the festival also has amazing vegetarian cuisine. Streets fill with food stalls selling fried tofu, sticky rice dumplings, and loads of noodle dishes. The flavors are bold and delicious, proving that meat-free dishes can be incredibly satisfying.

When: Usually in October (based on the lunar calendar)

Phuket is the center of festivities. If you’re looking for something out of the ordinary, you’ll find it here.

King’s Birthday

The King’s Birthday is a big deal in Thailand as the monarchy is deeply respected. The previous king’s birthday was on December 5th, and while he has since passed away, the date is still marked each year.

There are ceremonies and celebrations around the country, but the most impressive are arguably in Bangkok. Locals decorate their homes with yellow flags and pictures of the king.

When: December 5

If you’re in Bangkok, head to Ratchadamnoen Avenue near the Grand Palace, where you can see the most extravagant parades and events.

Chiang Mai Flower Festival

If you’re into blooms and beautiful gardens, the Chiang Mai Flower Festival is perfect for you. Held in February, this festival showcases Thailand’s diverse and colorful flowers, plants, and trees.

The streets of Chiang Mai will be filled with elaborate flower floats, traditional dance performances, and live music. You’ll see gardens transformed into colorful masterpieces.

When: First weekend of February

Catch the main parade starting from Nawarat Bridge. It’s a perfect chance to relax and admire the beauty of both nature and Thailand’s cultural heritage.

Phimai Festival

The Phimai Festival is much more low-key compared to the others, but it’s one of the most authentic. It happens in Phimai, a small town in Nakhon Ratchasima. The festival celebrates the stunning Khmer temples in the area.

Experience enchanting light and sound shows at the Phimai Historical Park, and learn about the town’s history. You’ll also see traditional boat races along the Mun River.

When: November

If you’re interested in history, don’t miss this. The boat races are one of the highlights of the event and are a favorite for locals.

Surin Elephant Roundup

Taking place in November, the Surin Elephant Roundup is Thailand’s biggest and most traditional elephant festival. Located in Surin, this event showcases the skills of Thai elephants and their trainers in what feels like a circus, minus the exploitation. The event pays homage to the role of elephants in Thai history and culture.

There are various activities like parades, tug-of-war contests (between elephants and humans!), and reenactments of historical events involving these majestic creatures.

When: Third weekend in November

Make sure to book your accommodation early since Surin gets quite busy during the festival.

Thai Lantern Festival – Mae Hong Son

Smaller and less-known than Yi Peng, Mae Hong Son’s lantern festival still dazzles. This remote town near the Myanmar border celebrates their own version of a lantern festival by releasing thousands of lanterns into the sky.

Fewer tourists make their way here, which adds more authenticity to your experience. Watching the glowing lanterns light up the night sky is something you’ll never forget.

When: November

If you like things off the beaten path, give Mae Hong Son a try for a more intimate lantern festival vibe.

Wonderfruit Festival

Looking for a hip, artsy, and eco-friendly festival? Wonderfruit should be on your list. It brings a global lineup of music, art, workshops, and sustainability in an all-in-one celebration that’s held near Pattaya, about two hours from Bangkok.

Expect electronic music, interactive art installations, yoga sessions, and organic food stalls. The festival has attracted eco-conscious travelers wanting more than just a typical music festival experience.

When: December (dates vary)

For fans of festivals like Burning Man, Wonderfruit offers something similar with a Southeast Asian twist.

Thailand International Balloon Festival

This lesser-known festival is all about experiencing Thailand from above. Happening in different provinces every year, it gathers colorful hot-air balloons from around the world.

You can enjoy balloon rides, food stalls, and light shows in the evening. It’s perfect if you love seeing landscapes from a quiet, dreamy vantage point.

When: November or February (dates vary)

Keep an eye on the location announcement if you want to include this unique event in your travel plans.

Chinese New Year in Thailand

Thailand has a large Chinese community, so Chinese New Year is celebrated with colorful parades, dragon dances, fireworks, and, of course, excellent food. Bangkok’s Chinatown (Yaowarat) is the place to be if you want to experience all the fun.

You’ll find red decorations everywhere along with lively performances and markets selling everything from fruit to monk-blessed trinkets. Expect large crowds and loads of street food options.

When: February (dates change depending on the lunar calendar)

Bangkok’s Chinatown has the biggest celebrations, but you’ll find observances in other cities like Phuket and Chiang Mai as well.

Thai Ghost Festival – Phi Ta Khon

Phi Ta Khon is truly one of Thailand’s unique festivals. Taking place in Loei Province, this “Ghost Festival” features locals dressed in colorful costumes and wearing spooky ghost masks. It’s part of the Buddhist Bun Luang Festival, where locals call on spirits for good luck.

The festival is fun yet spiritual and filled with traditions. The atmosphere is lively with parades, music, and dance. Even though it looks strange, it’s about welcoming and honoring spirits to bless the land.