Thailand festivals and events in 2007 - 2008
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Home : Thailand > Thailand Festivals & Events

 

MAJOR FESTIVALS & EVENTS IN 2007-2008

January | February | March | April | May | June | July | August
September | October | November | December

Thailand has a large number of festivals and holidays. Exact dates for festivals may vary from year to year, either because of the lunar calendar, which is not synchronised with the solar calendar, or because local authorities decide to change festival dates. The Tourism Authority of Thailand publishes an up-to-date Major Events and Festivals Calendar each year.

The highlighted amazing celebrations and festivities include:

• SPECIAL EVENTS: The Celebrations for the Auspicious Occasion of His Majesty the King’s 80th Birthday Anniversary December 5, 2007.
• WORLD EVENTS: There are two annual Events, Songkran and Loi Krathong which are well known internationally, and in which tourists from around the world enjoy Taking part.
• GRAND Events: These will be promoted internationally. Most participants will be foreign visitors and the venues have all the necessary facilities for welcoming tourists.

YEAR PLANNER 2007-2008

back to topJANUARY

GRAND EVENT:
THE ROYAL TROPHY EUROPE VS ASIA Golf CHAMPIONSHIP
Date: January 11-14, 2007 & January 10-13, 2008.
Venue: Amata Springs Country Club Golf Course, Chon Buri

  • Leading European and Asian Golfers Take part in this famous international team event. The format is Ryder Cup Style Team Competition. The European Team captain is Seve Ballesteros, while the Asian Team captain is Naomichi Joe Ozaki. Tickets cost 1,000 baht.
  • Contact the Tournament Organiser, tel: 0 2640 8194-6, 0 2651 9499, fax: 0 2640 8193, www.theroyaltrophy.com.

GRAND EVENT:
JOHNNIE WALKER CLASSIC 2007
Date: January 2007.
Venue: Alpine Golf and sports Club, Pathum Thani

  • This will be the fifth time that Thailand has hosted the Johnnie Walker Classic Golfing tournament, a team competition that attracts many of the world’s most renowned Golfers.
  • Contact the Events Planning Division, TAT, tel: 0 2250 5500 ext 3475-79, www.johnniewalkerclassic.com.


back to topFEBRUARY

CHIANG MAI FLOWER FESTIVAL
Date: February 2-4, 2007 & February 1-3, 2008.
Venue: Buak Hat Park, Muang District, Chiang Mai.

  • A profusion of blossoming flowers display their beauty at the beginning of the year in this grand floral festival in Chiang Mai. As well as magnificent gardens, the festival features agricultural exhibitions, a floral procession, decorative plants and flowers contest, garden arrangement competition, sales from the Farmer’s Housewives’ Group and a beauty contest.
  • Contact Chiang Mai Municipal Office, tel: 0 5333 8048; and TAT Northern Office, Region 1 (Chiang Mai), tel: 0 5324 8604, 0 5324 8607, www.tat.or.th/festival, www.tatchiangmai.org.

GRAND EVENT:
THAILAND CHINA TOWN FESTIVAL
Date: February 18-19, 2007 & February 7-8, 2008.
Venue: Yaowarat Road, Sampanthawong, Bangkok

  • A great many activities have been planned to celebrate the 80th Birthday of His Majesty the King in 2007. In Bangkok’s Chinatown, Yaowarat, there is a commemorative exhibition with Thai-Chinese cultural performances, puppet theatre, Chinese opera, a dragon dance and a light and sound show. Visitors can join in the Worship at Eight Shrines ceremony which the Chinese believe will bring good luck. Go shopping at famous souvenir Shops for gold ornaments in a fantastic variety of designs, and taste the varieties of Chinese cuisine available the length of Yaowarat Road.
  • Contact the Events Promotion Division, TAT, tel: 0 2250 5500 ext 3495-9, www.tat.or.th/festival.


back to topMARCH

GRAND EVENT:
PATTAYA INTERNATIONAL MUSIC FESTIVAL
Date: March 16-18, 2007 & March 21-23, 2008.
Venue: Pattaya Beach, Muang Pattaya, Chon Buri

  • It will be music without frontiers when Thai musicians meet with popular international artists from Asia, Australia, Europe and the USA at this Beachside festival. Music lovers and fans of the singers and musicians will have opportunities to meet them over the two weekends. There will also be music workShops, sales of music accessories and food stalls run by some of Pattaya’s famous restaurants.
  • Contact the Advertising and Public Relations Strategies Division, TAT, tel: 0 250 5500 ext 1511; and TAT Central Office: Region 3 (Pattaya), tel: 0 3842 7667, www.tat.or.th/festival.

GRAND EVENT:
MEKONG RIVER INTERNATIONAL MULTISPORT CHAMPIONSHIP
Date: March 23-25, 2007 & March 28-30, 2008.
Venue: Tambon Nai Muang, Muang District, Mukdahan

  • An international triathlon event consisting of swimming across the Mekong River, mountain biking and running in the Northeastern province of Mukdahan.
  • Contact the Mukdahan Tourism, sports and Recreation Centre, tel: 0 4261 1306;
    the Triathlon Association of Thailand,
    tel: 0 2578 4515, 0 1484 3335, 0 6092 5511;
    TAT Northeastern Office: Region 4 (Nakhon Phanom),
    tel: 0 4251 3490-2; the Events Promotion Division,
    TAT, tel: 0 2250 5500 ext 3495-99,
    www.tat.or.th/festival, www.thaitriathlon.org.


back to topAPRIL

THAI-LAO SONGKRAN FESTIVAL
Date: April 6-18, 2007 & April 6-18, 2008.
Venue: Chom Mani Beach, Mekong River at Wat Pho Chai, Nong Khai

  • See the procession of the Thai-Lao Buddha image Luang Pho Phra Sai paraded around the city of Nong Khai. Join in blessing and being blessed by the governor and the elderly people. Enjoy the sand chedi building contest, Miss Songkran procession, gay beauty contest, Mekong fish cooking contest, Nong Khai souvenir contest, local sports competition, swimming across the Mekong River, folk shows, and of course, the fun of being drenched with water on a hot sunny day.
  • Contact TAT Northeastern Office: Region 4 (Nakhon Phanom), tel: 0 4251 3490-1, www.songkran.net.

WORLD EVENT:
THAILAND GRAND SONGKRAN FESTIVAL
Date: April 6-22, 2007.
Venue: Ratchadamnoen Avenue, The Royal Ground (Sanam Luang), in front of Bangkok Metropolitan Administration Office, Santichai Prakan Park, Phluppla Jetsadabordin Park, various temples on Ko Rattanakosin (Wat Phra Kaeo, Wat Suthat, Wat Pho, Wat Boworn, Wat Saket, Wat Rakhang, Wat Kanlayanamit, Wat Arun, Wat Chanasongkhram), Khao San Road, Phra Athit Road, Bang Lamphu

  • The Thai New Year is celebrated with a water pouring festival. It can range from the gentle sprinkling of water over the hands of old people to the enthusiastic, good natured water-throwing that crowds of young people always enjoy. At the grand opening ceremony of the festival, the procession of the revered Buddha image Phra Bhuddha Sihing to Sanam Luang will be televised live throughout Thailand and via www.songkran.net to the world. Buddhists make merit at this time by worshipping at nine royal temples. Building elaborate chedi out of sand is another festival activity, with traditional games and cultural shows. The International Miss Songkran Beauty Contest will be held at Khao San Road, and the Classical Thai Miss Songkran Beauty Contest of the Wisut Kasat and Phra Athit communities at Santichai Prakan Park.
  • Contact the Events Promotion Division, TAT, tel: 0 250 5500 ext 3489, www.songkran.net.

DOK KHUN SIANG KHAEN FESTIVAL AND STICKY RICE STREET
Date: April 8-15, 2007 & April 8-15, 2008.
Venue: Si Chan Road, Muang Distrist, Khon Kaen

  • Enjoy the water splashing on Si Chan Road also known as Sticky Rice Street; see the procession of the floral floats, paying homage to the elderly and receiving their blessings, buy local OTOP products, see Isan cultural shows and enjoy typical Isan food. To mark the festival the city area will be decorated in Lanna style.
  • Contact TAT Northeastern Office: Region 3 (Khon Kaen), tel: 0 4324 4498-9,
    www.songkran.net.

HAT YAI MIDNIGHT SONGKRAN FESTIVAL
Date: April 11-13, 2007 & April 11-13, 2008.
Venue: Niphat Uthit Road, Sanehanusorn Road, Hat Yai

  • Join the Songkran procession, watch local sports, the International Miss Songkran Beauty Contest and local forms of entertainment such as Pong Lang Sa-on. Join in the Songkran water fun at nighttime until midnight, with tourists from Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia and further afield.
  • Contact TAT Southern Office: Region 1 (Hat Yai), tel: 0 7423 1055, www.songkran.net.

WORLD EVENT:
CHIANG MAI SONGKRAN FESTIVAL
Date: April 11-15, 2007 & April 11-15, 2008.
Venue: All around Chiang Mai (Wat Phra Sing, Tha Phae Gate, and around the Chiang Mai City moat)

  • The Songkran festival in Chiang Mai lasts for three days. The first day, April 13 is the time for people to purify their, mind, body, home and surroundings. April 14 is a day of making merit in various ways, such as offering sand to the temples, building sand chedi, and friendly water splashing. April 15 is the time to listen to the monk’s sermon, give wooden poles to support the great Bo tree, perform the bathing rite for Buddha images and monks, enshrine the ashes of their ancestors, release birds and fish, pay respect to elders and ask for their blessing, as well as splashing water on one another. The city area will be decorated in Lanna style to welcome the festival.
  • Contact TAT Northern Office: Region 1 (Chiang Mai), tel: 0 5324 8604, www.songkran.net.

NAKHON SI THAMMARAT SONGKRAN FESTIVAL
Date: April 11-15, 2007.
Venue: Si Thamma Sokarat Park, Sanam Na Muang, I-suan Hall

  • Celebrate the Thai New Year by Taking part in bathing the Phra Bhuddha Sihing image, visiting the six sacred temples, listening to a monk’s sermon, watching the mini light and sound presentation, the Miss Songkran procession and demonstrations of swinging to Phra I-suan, as well as other exciting local activities.
  • Contact TAT Southern Office: Region 2 (Nakhon Si Thammarat), tel: 0 7534 6515, www.songkran.net.

WORLD EVENT:
PHRA NAKHON SI AYUTTHAYA SONGKRAN FESTIVAL
Date: April 13-15, 2007 & April 13-15, 2008.
Venue: Around Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya

  • At this Thai New Year festival in the old capital of Ayutthaya there will be worshipping at nine sacred temples, bathing of the Buddha image of the old city of Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, making merit by giving alms to monks, releasing birds and fish from captivity, and paying homage to the elderly. Visitors can also enjoy splashing water with elephants, watching the Miss Songkran Beauty Contest, and joining in the grand procession of Miss Songkran.
  • Contact TAT Central Office: Region 6 (Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya), tel: 0 3524 6076-7, www.songkran.net.

NAKHON PHANOM SONGKRAN AND LAO NEW YEAR FESTIVAL
Date: April 13-15, 2007 & April 13-15, 2008.
Venue: Sai Thong Sri Kottabun Beach, Muang District; Phra That Phanom Wara Mahawihan, That Phanom District; and Renu Nakhon Municipality, Nakhon Phanom

  • Join in the ceremony of bathing the monks and the chedi; join in making the sand Buddha image to bless people with good health. See the ceremony of tying the sacred string around 2,000-year-old chedi in the Mekong River revered by the people of Thailand, Lao PDR. See the pha pa ceremony for the Sri Kottabun Chedi dedicated to His Majesty the King. See the Thai noodles known as khanom jeen being prepared and enjoy their taste, and watch colourful local performances.
  • Contact TAT Northeastern Office: Region 4 (Nakhon Phanom), tel: 0 4251 3490-1, www.songkran.net.

SONGKRAN: THE WATER FESTIVAL ON THE BEACH
Date: April 13-15, 2007.
Venue: Patong Beach, Phuket

  • See the procession of Phra Bhuddha Sihing, the Songkran parade and the Young Kids Songkran Contest, then enjoy the water fun along Patong Beach.
  • Contact TAT Southern Office: Region 4 (Phuket), tel: 0 7621 1036, www.songkran.net.

BANG SAEN WAN LAI TRADITION
Date: April 16-17, 2007 & April 16-17, 2008.
Venue: Bang Saen Beach, Muang District, Chon Buri

  • This ceremony of the people of Tambon Saensuk is based on the original wan lai tradition that brings people together to make merit during the Songkran festival. Activities include inviting the monks of the area to conduct religious rites. The people will give water to the monks, build sand chedi on the Beach, play traditional games, and pay homage to the elderly, then enjoying splashing one another with water along the clean, white Bang Saen Beach.
  • Contact TAT Central Office: Region 3 (Pattaya), tel: 0 3842 7667, www.songkran.net.

WORLD EVENT:
TRADITIONAL PATTAYA LAI FESTIVAL
Date: April 18-19, 2007 & April 18-19, 2008.
Venue: Pattaya Beach and Wat Chai Mongkon, South Pattaya, Chon Buri

  • Local people come together to make merit in several ways at this annual festival. They build chedi out of sand, give water to monks and pay respect to elderly people. The fun part includes a Songkran procession, cultural shows, the Miss Songkran Beauty Contest and joyfully throwing water at one another along the Beach at Pattaya.
  • Contact TAT Central Office: Region 3 (Pattaya), tel: 0 3842 7667, www.songkran.net.

WORLD EVENT:
SI RACHA SONGKRAN FESTIVAL AND RICE HEAPING CEREMONY
Date: April 19-21, 2007 & April 19-21, 2008.
Venue: Ko Loi Public Park, Si Racha District, Chon Buri

  • See the traditional rice heaping ceremony, Thai art and cultural shows, local folk games, a light and sound show, local dishes and desserts, a procession to bathe the Buddha image, a sand chedi building contest, and the Miss Songkran Beauty Contest. In addition, there will be the essential feature of Songkran festivities, high-spirited splashing of water.
  • Contact TAT Central Office: Region 3 (Pattaya), tel: 0 3842 7667, www.songkran.net.

WORLD EVENT:
MON SONGKRAN FESTIVAL
Date: April 20-21, 2007 & April 18-20, 2008.
Venue: Phra Pradaeng District Office, Samut Prakan

  • See the grand procession of flags and floral float procession with young women in the traditional costumes of the Mon people, traditional Mon games, releasing birds and fish from captivity, making merit by giving alms to the monks, and paying respect to elderly people. There is also the Miss Songkran Beauty Contest and a Pretty Boy contest as well, and the traditional water throwing festivities the Mon style.
  • Contact TAT Central Office: Region 8 (Nakhon Nayok), tel: 0 3731 2282, www.songkran.net.

GRAND EVENT:
VISAKHA PUJA DAY
Date: April 27-May 1, 2007 & May 15-19, 2008.
Venue: The Royal Ground (Sanam Luang), Bangkok

  • This auspicious Buddhist ceremony marks the birth, enlightenment, and death of Lord Buddha with merit making and candle-lit processions. See the decorated procession from government Offices and private companies, as well as a special Visakha Puja Day. There are also contests for making offering trays and for Buddhist chanting.
  • Contact the Bangkok Tourism Division, tel: 0 2225 7612-4, www.tat.or.th/festival.


back to topMAY

GRAND EVENT:
SAMUI REGATTA
Date: May 21-27, 2007 & May 19-26, 2008.
Venue: Ko Samui District, Surat Thani

  • A truly international sailing event off the east and north coasts of Samui, one of Thailand’s most beautiful islands, with contestants coming from Asia, Australia, New Zealand, Europe and the Americas. The action can be viewed from the lookout points to the south of Chaweng Bay, Bo Phut, and Mae Nam Beaches as well as along the magnificent stretch of Beach at Chaweng and Lamai.
  • Contact the Samui Regatta Association, tel: 0 7743 0404; and TAT Southern Office: Region 5 (Surat Thani), tel: 0 7728 8818-9, www.Samuiregatta.com.


back to topJUNE

GRAND EVENT:
HUA HIN JAZZ FESTIVAL
Date: June 8-10, 2007 & June 7-9, 2008.
Venue: Hua Hin Beach, Prachuap Khiri Khan

  • Enjoy live jazz performances from 15 local and international artists, brought together on the Beach of this resort town. Jazz lovers are guaranteed a fantastic experience from sunrise to sunset. A colourful variety of stalls, Shops and activities like hair braiding and fingernail decorating will ensure a lively atmosphere that everyone will enjoy.
  • Contact Hilton Hua Hin Resort and Spa, tel: 0 3253 8999, 0 2264 0291 ext 29; and TAT Central Office: Region 2 (Prachuap Khiri Khan), tel: 0 3247 1005-6, www.huahinjazzfestival.com.

GRAND EVENT:
THAILAND GRAND SALES
Date: June 16-August 15, 2007 & June 16-August 15, 2008.
Venue: Nationwide

  • At the Amazing Shopping Paradise visitors visitors will find all the well-known names in fashion, jewellery, leatherwear, bags, shoes, and all kinds of luxury goods. Shop wherever you like and enjoy special promotional prices, not only for top brand names but also for tour packages inbound and outbound. Discover the products of the Royal Projects including export quality cool climate fruit and vegetables and winter flowers, products from Phufa Shops and the furniture made in the workShops of the Corrections Department.
  • Contact the Tourism Investment Division, Tourism Investment Department, tel: 0 2250 5500 ext 2951, www.tat.or.th/festival.

PHI TA KHON FESTIVAL
Date: June-July 2007 & June-July, 2008.
Venue: Dan Sai District, Loei

  • Phi Ta Khon is a unique celebration during the Bun Luang festival, the largest annual merit making ceremony in Dan Sai, Loei Province. The costumes are fascinating and quite unique, with participants wearing ghost masks made from coloured bamboo sticky rice steamers, and robes made from scraps of brightly coloured fabric stitched together. The “ghosts” wear bells around their waists to announce their presence. The first activity in the early morning of the first day is the presentation of the Phra Uppakhut image. In the afternoon there are a series of colourful parades. Both small and large Phi Ta Khon will Take part in the procession of Bodhisattra Vessantara, the Buddha’s penultimate incarnation, into the city. There is a rocket procession, and each village will enter its own parade for the competition.
  • Contact Dan Sai District Office, tel: 0 4283 3209; TAT Northeastern Office: Region 5 (Udon Thani), tel: 0 4232 5406-7; and Loei Tourism Coordination Centre, tel: 0 4281 2812.

PHUKET INTERNATIONAL MARATHON
Date: June 2007 & June 2008.
Venue: Bang Thao Beach, Thalang District, Phuket

  • The marathon will include a number of sporting activities, and thousands of runners are expected to Take part in the event. The three main races are the marathon, the half marathon and a 10-km fun run with the start and finish at Phuket Laguna. There will be a two-day expo when runners can pick up their race kits and sponsors can promote their products.
  • Contact TAT Southern Office, Region 4 (Phuket), tel: 0 7621 2213, 0 7621 1036, www.tat.or.th/festival.

back to topJULY

PATTAYA MARATHON
Date: July 15, 2007 & July 20, 2008.
Venue: Muang Pattaya, Chon Buri

  • This popular sporting event features a 10-km quartermarathon, 21-km halfmarathon and the 42.195-km marathon. There will also be opportunities to buy sports products and equipment.
  • Contact Pattaya District Office, tel: 0 3837 1169, fax: 0 3842 8439; Nadi District Office, tel: 0 3278 9074, 0 3728 9124; and TAT Central Office: Region 3 (Chon Buri), tel: 0 3842 7667, 0 3842 8750, www.tat.or.th/festival.

BANGKOK INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL (BKKIFF)
Date: July 19-29, 2007.
Venue: Bangkok

  • More than 150 films from around the globe including several outstanding Thai films will be shown at the festival, with 30 Asian short films selected for their quality and originality. Other festival activities include seminars, training and fi lm marketing fair.
  • Contact the Bangkok International Film festival Operation Centre, tel: 0 2250 0047, 0 2250 5500 ext 1756-7, fax: 0 2250 0019, www.Bangkokfilm.org.

UBON RATCHATHANI CANDLE FESTIVAL
Date: July 29-30, 2007 & July 18-19, 2008.
Venue: Muang District, Ubon Ratchathani

  • Elaborately carved beeswax candles are paraded around the city before being presented to local temples to mark the beginning of Buddhist Lent. There are at least 60 spectacular candle processions to see, as well as candle making and design contests, a light and sound show, cultural performances, display and sales of OTOP products and souvenirs and the Miss Khao Phansa Candle Contest.
  • Contact Ubon Ratchathani Provincial Office, tel: 0 4525 4827; and TAT Northeastern Office: Region 2 (Ubon Ratchathani), tel: 0 4524 3770, www.tatubon.org.

back to topSEPTEMBER

ELEPHANT POLO TOURNAMENT
Date: September 3-9, 2007 & September 1-7, 2008.
Venue: Chiang Saen Witthayakom, the Golden Triangle, Chiang Saen District, Chiang Rai

  • Polo on elephant back is a well-established sporting event in Thailand. This tournament for the Royal Trophy is a part of the world tournament organised at the Royal Chitwan Park in Nepal.
  • Contact Jaruwon Meethrap, Deputy Manager for Public Relations, tel: 0 2476 0022 ext 1707, www.thaielephantpolo.com, www.anantara.com.

THAILAND INTERNATIONAL AND TRADITIONAL THAI LONGBOAT RACES
Date: September 8-9, 2007 & September 13-14, 2008.
Venue: Chao Phraya River, Bang Sai Folk Arts and Crafts Centre, Bang Sai District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya

  • There has been longboat racing on Thailand’s rivers and waterways since ancient times, and it is part of the Kingdom’s cultural heritage. At this longboat summit, visitors will see boats with crews of 22 paddlers in the international category, and 30 and 55 paddlers in the Thai traditional longboat category.
  • Contact the Events Promotion Division, TAT, tel: 0 2250 5500 ext 3496-8, www.tat.or.th/festival

TENNIS ATP THAILAND OPEN
Date: September 23-30, 2007 & September 22-29, 2008.
Venue: Impact Arena, Muang Thong Thani, Pathum Thani

  • Thailand has hosted the Tennis ATP Thailand Open tournament several times and welcomed many renowned tennis pros coming to compete.
  • For information, contact the Events Planning Division, TAT, tel: 0 2250 5500 ext 3475-79, www.Thailandopen.org.

GRAND EVENT:
FESTIVAL OF PERFORMING ARTS AND INTERNATIONAL MUSIC
Date: September-October 2007 & September-October 2008.
Venue: Thailand Cultural Centre, Huai Khwang District, Bangkok

  • Every year the festival presents a dazzling range of worldclass music and dance performances from many countries.
  • Contact the Events Promotion Division, TAT, tel: 0 2250 5500 ext 3485-9, www.tat.or.th/festival.


back to topOCTOBER

OK PHANSA TRADITION, WAX CASTLE AND TRADITIONAL LONGBOAT RACES
Date: October 20-26, 2007 & October 8-14, 2008.
Venue: Muang District, Sakon Nakhon

  • At the Wax Castle & Boat Racing festival visitors will see a parade of miniature temples and shrines formed from beeswax to make merit at the end of Buddhist Lent. The festival also features boat races and cultural performances. There will be a competition for wax castles and a grand procession, traditional long boat races, a peacock dance contest, sales of local products and food and many kinds of local entertainment.
  • Contact Sakon Nakhon Provincial Office, tel: 0 4271 1065; Sakon Nakhon Municipal Office, tel: 0 4271 1203; and TAT Northeastern Office: Region 4 (Nakhon Phanom), tel: 0 4251 3490-1, www.tat.or.th/festival.

NONG KHAI OK PHANSA AND FIREBALL FESTIVAL
Date: October 22-28, 2007 & October 10-16, 2008.
Venue: Banks of the Mekong River, Phon Phisai, Muang District and other districts of Nong Khai

  • The festival features many merit-making ceremonies and festivities including paying homage to the chedi in the river and the Thevorohana alms giving, light and sound presentation, “The Legend of the Naga Rockets,” sales of food and local products, a competition for the best naga float, a competition for making wax castles, the giant krathong contest, traditional longboat races and the cheer squad competition.
  • Contact the Nong Khai Tourist Information Centre, tel: 0 4246 7164;
    Nong Khai Provincial Office, tel: 0 4242 0323;
    Nong Khai Public Relations Office, tel: 0421 2110;
    Phon Phisai District Office, tel: 0 4242 1185;
    and TAT Northeastern Office: Region 5 (Udon Thani), tel: 0 4232 5406-7,
    www.tat.or.th/festival.

NAKHON PHANOM ILLUMINATED BOAT PROCESSION
Date: October 21-27, 2007 & October 9-15, 2008.
Venue: Mekong River in front of City Hall, Nakhon Phanom

  • Watch the thrilling longboat races on the Mekong River, and see wax castles carried along the river in illuminated boats on the night of Ok Phansa, the end of Buddhist Lent. Enjoy local cultural performances including the Phra That Phanom dancing rite performed by seven ethnic groups in traditional costumes, sales of food and local products, and many kinds of local entertainment.
  • Contact Nakhon Phanom Provincial Office, tel: 0 4251 1287, 0 4251 1574;
    TAT Northeastern Office: Region 4 (Nakhon Phanom), tel: 0 4251 3490-1,
    www.tat.or.th/festival.

back to topNOVEMBER

SURIN ELEPHANT ROUND-UP AND RED CROSS FAIR
Date: November 17-18, 2007 & November 15-16, 2008.
Venue: Surin Elephant Round-up Ground, Si Narong Stadium, Muang District, Surin

  • See the spectacular elephant procession that has delighted generations of visitors, the round-up of working elephants, elephant racing, an elephant football match, and other activities in which the Thai elephant is the star.
  • Contact Surin Provincial Office, tel: 0 4451 2039; TAT Northeastern Office:
    Region 1 (Nakhon Ratchasima), tel: 0 4421 3666, www.tat.or.th/festival.

LAGUNA PHUKET TRIATHLON
Date: November 17-18, 2007 & November 15-16, 2008.
Venue: Hat Bang Tao, Thalang District, Phuket

  • A competition for the “iron men” of Thailand and around the world, with swimming, cycling and a marathon along an adventurous route through Phuket’s tourist attractions.
  • Contact TAT Southern Office: Region 4 (Phuket), tel: 07621 1036,
    www.tat.or.th/festival, www.lagunaphuket.com.

WORLD EVENT:
GRAND LOI KRATHONG FESTIVAL
Date: November 21-25, 2007 & November 7-12, 2008.
Venue: Banks of the Chao Phraya River from Taksin to Krungthon bridges, Bangkok

  • Loi Krathong is traditionally performed on the full moon night of the twelfth lunar month, which usually falls on some day in November. The floating of a krathong is intended to float away ill fortune as well as to express apologies to the River Goddess. Be sure to see the illuminated boat procession to celebrate the auspicious occasion of His Majesty the King 80th Birthday Anniversary on December 5, 2007, with all the historic buildings on the banks of the Chao Phraya River beautifully lit up.
  • Contact the Events Planning Division, TAT, tel: 0 2250 5500 ext 3495-8, www.loikrathong.net.

WORLD EVENT:
SUKHOTHAI LOI KRATHONG AND CANDLE FESTIVAL
Date: November 21-25, 2007 & November 7-12, 2008.
Venue: Sukhothai Historical Park, Muang District, Sukhothai

  • Take part in the rites to pay homage to King Ramkhamhaeng the Great, enjoy colourful processions, contests to design hanging lanterns and krathong, fireworks displays, floating lanterns, Miss Nopphamas Beauty Contest, the light and sound presentation, “Sukhothai the Great Capital,” and the floating of krathong.
  • Contact TAT Northern Office, Region 3 (Phitsanulok), tel: 0 5525 2742-3,
    www.loikrathong.net.

TAK LOI KRATHONG SAI FESTIVAL
Date: November 22-27, 2007 & November 10-15, 2008.
Venue: Along the banks of the Ping River, Muang District, Tak

  • Join in floating coconut shell krathong (krathong sai) on the Ping River, the only event of its kind in Thailand. There will be a Krathong Sai competition for the Royal Trophy of HM King Bhumibol Adulyadej, a Pha Pa Water Krathong Contest, several kinds of entertainment, and the floating of krathong.
  • Contact TAT Northern Office: Region 4 (Tak), tel: 0 5551 4341-3,
    www.loikrathong.net.

WORLD EVENT:
YI PENG FESTIVAL
Date: November 23-25, 2007 & November 11-13, 2008.
Venue: Chiang Mai

  • The festival activities include a procession and Yi Peng Khom Contest as well as krathong designing contests. Illuminated arches and lanterns will decorate the houses and temple. There will be Lanna cultural performances, boat racing on the Ping River, a light and sound show, and everyone will join in the delightful tradition of the floating of krathong.
  • Contact TAT Northern Office: Region1 (Chiang Mai), tel: 0 5324 8604,
    www.loikrathong.net.

LOI KRATHONG TAM PRATHEEP
Date: November 23-25, 2007 & November 11-13, 2008.
Venue: Chao Phraya River at the Bang Sai Royal Folks Arts and Crafts Centre, Bang Sai District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya

  • See the Miss Nopphamas Beauty Contest and procession of beauty queens from Thailand’s four regions. Enjoy local cultural performances, Thai food contests, art and handicraft sales, a floating market demonstration, fireworks and flying lanterns.
  • Contact TAT Central Office: Region 6 (Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya),
    tel: 0 3624 6076-7, www.loikrathong.net.

BRIDGE OVER THE RIVER KHWAI FAIR
Date: November 24-December 7, 2007 & November 24-December 7, 2008.
Venue: River Khwai Bridge, Muang District, Kanchanaburi

  • Discover the history and lifestyle of Kanchanaburi Province in the “Ancient Town of Kanchanaburi” presentation. See the magnificent and moving light and sound presentation, “The River Kwai Bridge and the Death Railway” at the River Kwai Bridge. The entrance to the bridge and fair will be colourfully decorated and local and OTOP products will be on sale.
  • Contact Kanchanaburi Provincial Office, tel: 0 3451 1778, 0 3451 2399,
    0 3451 5208; and TAT Central Office: Region 1 (Kanchanaburi), tel: 0 3451 1200,
    www.tat.or.th/festival, www.Kanchanaburi.go.th,

BANGKOK MARATHON
Date: November 25, 2007 & November 30, 2008.
Venue: Starting point at Sanamchai Road on the eastern side of the Grand Palace,
Phra Nakhon District, Bangkok

  • The marathon will be run on smooth, well-paved routes with a few slopes on some of Bangkok’s well-known landmarks such as Phra Pinklao Bridge, Thon Buri- Nakhon Chaisi Road, Rama VIII Bridge. The Bangkok Marathon complies with international standards and certified by the Association of International Marathons as well as the Amateur Athletic Association of Thailand. In order to Take part, candidates should come prepared with documents to declare their age.
  • Contact the Association of Jogging for Good Health, tel: 0 2280 7667-8,
    www.bkkmarathon.com, www.tat.or.th/festival.

back to topDECEMBER

BANGKOK JAZZ FESTIVAL
Date: December 2007 & December 2008.
Venue: Sanam Seu Pha, Dusit, Bangkok

  • Bangkok’s annual jazz summit features a galaxy of international and local jazz stars. There will be widespread advance announcements and full media listing of show times.
  • Contact the Events Planning Division, TAT, tel: 0 2250 5500 ext 3477,
    www.Bangkokjazzfestival.com, www.tat.or.th/festival.

KING’S CUP REGATTA
Date: December 2007 & December 2008.
Venue: Phuket, Phang-nga and Krabi

  • This is Asia’s biggest, best-known and most well-attended regatta, a week of great sailing as well as great parties and lots of fun. Inaugurated in 1987 to celebrate the 60th birthday of His Majesty the King, the regatta has been held every year in the first week of December.
  • Contact the King’s Cup Regatta Office, tel: 0 7627 3380; and TAT Southern Office:
    Region 4 (Phuket), tel: 0 7621 1036, www.kingscup.com, www.tat.or.th/festival.

TROOPING OF THE COLOURS
Date: December 2, 2007 & December 2, 2008.
Venue: Area of the King Rama V statue, Suan Amphon, Dusit, Bangkok

  • See the stirring spectacle of troops marching past in a magnificent parade to pay respect to His Majesty the King.
  • Contact the Bangkok Tourism Division, tel: 0 2225 7612-4,
    www.tat.or.th/festival.

SPECIAL EVENT:
THE CELEBRATIONS ON THE AUSPICIOUS OCCASION OF HIS MAJESTY THE KING’S 80TH BIRTHDAY ANNIVERSARY
DECEMBER 5, 2007
Date: December 5, 2007.
Venue: Nationwide

  • On December 5, His Majesty the King will celebrate his 80th birthday anniversary. His Majesty has therefore announced that this special event will be known as, “The Celebrations on the Auspicious Occasion of His Majesty the King’s 80th Birthday Anniversary, December 5, 2007”.
  • Contact the Foundation of King Rama 9, tel: 0 2356 0050-2, 0 2356 0203,
    fax: 0 2356 0051-2, www.belovedking.com.

THE 24TH SEA GAMES
Date: December 6-15, 2007.
Venue: Nakhon Ratchasima (main venue), Bangkok (some Events), Chon Buri-
Rayong (water sports)

  • “Spirit, Friendship and Celebration” is the slogan of the 24th SEA Games, which in this auspicious year are to be held in Thailand. There will be 38 or 39 categories of sports in the Games. Besides fostering the unity of the nations competing, the Games will celebrate the occasion of HM the King’s 80th Birthday Anniversary.
  • Contact the Public Relations Section, sports Authority of Thailand,
    tel: 0 2318 0938, www.sat.or.th.

PHUKET INVITATIONAL SUPER-YACHT RENDEZVOUS
Date: December 15-16, 2007 & December 20-21, 2008.
Venue: Amanpuri Resort, Phuket

  • This is another great sailing attraction for Phuket, the rendezvous for a grand fleet of yachts for six consecutive years.
  • Contact Paul Poole (South East Asia) Co Ltd, tel: 0 2622 06057,
    www.phuket-invitational.com.

COUNTDOWN FESTIVAL
Date: December 31, 2007-January 1, 2008 & December 31, 2008-January 1, 2009.
Venue: Multi-purpose space in front of Central World Plaza and Ratchaprasong
Intersection, Bangkok

  • Every part of Bangkok’s premium shopping area will be brilliantly illuminated: the hotels, the buildings, the area in front of the plaza and the pedestrian bridges. The illuminations will begin at Ploenchit Road, at Rama I Road, and at Chidlom, and will extend all the way to Pratunam. The beer festival will be in full swing, well-known stars will come along to Take part, and from all corners of the world, everyone is invited to join us in Bangkok for the countdown in front of Central World Plaza.
  • Contact the Ratchaprasong Entrepreneurship Association, tel: 0 2656 1279, 0 2656 1929;
    the Tourism Investment Division, TAT, tel: 0 2250 5500 ext 2951-2960;
    and the Events Promotion Division, TAT, tel: 0 2250 5500 ext 3490-3493,
    www.tat.or.th/festival.

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