Major Thai Festivals and Events 2009
ANOTHER YEAR OF AMAZING FESTIVALS Since Thais love nothing more than a cheerful celebration, the Kingdom’s festivals are always an amazingly good time. Early in the year, you shouldn’t miss the multi-day Chinese New Year, with acrobatic lion and dragon dances, along with stage shows of ceremonial pageantry mixed with pop music in Bangkok’s Chinatown and other parts of the country. As the cool season gives way to warmer temperatures in late January and early February, Thailand’s incredible array of wild flowers are bursting with colour. So don’t miss the Flower Festival in the so-called “Northern Rose” of Chiang Mai. Why not put your full heart into Valentine’s Day with a truly original wedding ceremony? In the southern province of Trang, you can take the plunge by getting married underwater in scuba-diving gear, or up in Lampang you can ride to your Thai-style wedding ceremony on an elephant. April brings the hottest weather and one of the coolest events in the world, as Thais ring in their own New Year with water-splashing, the ritual bathing of Buddha images and the hands of elders, not to mention temple fairs with dancing, feasting and merry-making. Imagine three days of partyinglonger in Chiang Mai-with most of the country’s 60 million folks gleefully joining in. With the rainy season in May, the country’s rural folk rejoice in their harvests of rambutan, lychee, mangosteen and other fruits with a series of agricultural festivals, featuring parades, floats and bevies of beauty queens. To ensure a decent rainfall for the rice harvest to come, the farmers of the Northeast have a blast by shooting massive rockets into the heavens. Yasothon is the biggest and most raucous of the rocket festivals but many smaller towns in the Northeast also celebrate this ancient fertility and agricultural rite.
Even the rainy season cannot dampen the spirits of the Buddhist faithful in Thailand as locals celebrate the birth, death and enlightenment of the Lord Buddha, and Buddhist Lent when many men ordain as monks for three months. The rushing and swelling rivers also make September and October buoyant times for boat races, which make waves on waterways across the country. At the end of Buddhist Lent, tens of thousands of people gather on the banks of the Mekong River, outside of Nong Khai, to watch hundreds of fireballs fly out of the water. Some attribute these colourful orbs to deposits of methane gas in the bottom of the river, but many Thais believe they come from the mouth of the water-dwelling Phaya Nak, or Serpent King, as he pays homage to the Lord Buddha. On a full moon night, usually in November, the waterways of the Kingdom are ablaze with colour once again as Thais float small vessels made out of banana leaves, adorned with flowers and smoking sticks of sandalwood incense, in tribute to the Water Goddess. Known as Loy Krathong, this festival is particularly picturesque when you catch it in the atmospheric ruins of Sukhothai’s ancient city, or in Chiang Mai, where hot-air balloons float into the sky. Perhaps the grandest festival of them all comes on December 5, His Majesty the King’s Birthday, which is also Father’s Day in Thailand. Colourful shrines to the world’s longest-reigning monarch illuminate every corner of the Kingdom and such events as the military-themed “Trooping of the Colours,” and jamborees of musical and dance spectaculars get crowds swaying in Bangkok’s Sanam Luang. With so many splendid celebrations going on all year round, no wonder people call it Amazing Thailand!
The Royal Trophy Europe vs Asia Golf Championship
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Nong Khai Grand Songkran Festival
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Thailand Chinatown Festival
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Bangkok Songkran Festival
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Dok Khun Siang Khaen Songkran Festival
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Nakhon Phanom Songkran Festival
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The 24 ASEAN Barred Ground Dove Festival
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Hat Yai Midnight Songkran Festival
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Pattaya International Music Festival 2009
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Chiang Mai Songkran Festival
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Mekong River International Multi-sport Championship
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The 33 Chiang Mai Flower Festival Trang Underwater Wedding Ceremony th
CONTENTS Southern Grand Songkran Festival
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Phra Pradang Songkran Festival
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Songkran Water Festival (Paradise on the Beach)
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Yasothon Bun Bangfai Rocket Festival
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Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Songkran Festival
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Amazing Thailand Grand Sale 2009
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Wan Lai Bang Saen Songkran Festival
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Hua Hin Jazz Festival
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Wan Lai Pattaya Songkran Festival
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Phi Ta Khon Festival
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Phuket International Marathon 2009
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The International Wax Sculpture
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Si Maha Racha Songkran Festival and “Kong Khao” Ritual
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Pattaya International Marathon
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Tennis ATP Thailand Open
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2009 Bangkok International Film Festival
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The Illuminated Boat Procession
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H.M. the Queen’s Birthday Celebrations
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Sakon Nakhon Wax Castle Festival
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Central International Watch Fair 2009
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The End of the Buddhist Lent Festival & Naga
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Fireball Phenomenon, Nong Khai
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Phuket Vegetarian Festival
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Phuket Thailand Open 2009
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The 10 Annaul World Gourmet Festival st
The 21 Thailand International Swan Boat Races 2009
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Loi Krathong Festival
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River Kwai Bridge Week
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Sukhothai Loi Krathong and Candle Festival
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Bangkok Marathon 2009
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Bang Sai Loi Krathong Tam Prathip Festival
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Phuket King’s Cup Regatta
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Chiang Mai Yi Peng Festival
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H.M. the King’s Birthday
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Tak’s Loi Krathong Sai Festival
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Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya World Heritage Fair
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Surin Elephant Roundup
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Bangkok Jazz Festival 2009
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Laguna Phuket Triathlon
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Bangkok’s Countdown
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The Royal Trophy Europe vs Asia Golf Championship Date : 9 - 11 January 2009 Venue : Amata Spring Country Club, Chonburi Stimulate your heart with the challenging and exciting game of the two continents, an event that the best players from Europe play against the best players from Asia in Thailand’s World Class Private Club where the only floating green in Asia is located. Contact Amata Spring Country Club Tel. : 0 3846 8888 Website : www.theroyaltrophy.com
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Thailand Chinatown Festival
The 33 Chiang Mai Flower Festival
Date : 26 January 2009 Venue : Chinatown on Yaowarat Road, Bangkok
Date : 6 - 8 February 2009 Venue : Nong Buak Hat Park, Mueang District, Chiang Mai
Come to celebrate the Chinese New Year at the biggest Chinatown in Thailand, Yaowarat Road renowned as the Golden Road, the Land of the Siamese Dragon. Watch the beauty, treasure the Chinese cultural demonstrations and experience a wide range of Chinese cuisine available at famous restaurants as well as fashion shows depicting ancient Chinese attire from various regions. The goldsmith shops offer you beautiful souvenirs. Last but not least, Chinese movies are sure to fascinate you.
If you are obsessed with beautiful flowers and decorative plants, this is the festival for you. Experience these beautiful flower-decorated floats and a magnificent tapestry of floral splendor that blankets the land. There are also agricultural exhibitions, floral contents, and product sales by local groups of housewives.
Contact Events Planning Division, Tourism Authority of Thailand Tel. : 0 2250 5500 ext. 3465-8 Website : www.tourismthailand.org
Contact TAT Chiang Mai Office Tel. : 0 5324 8604, 0 5324 8607, 0 5324 1466 Chiang Mai Municipality Office Tel. : 0 5324 8604 Website : www.tourismthailand.org
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Trang Underwater Wedding Ceremony Date : 13 - 15 February 2009 Venue : Ko Kradan, Sikao District, Trang The brides and grooms parade through the city streets and attend lavish parties. The wedding ceremony will be held on the beach in a traditional Thai style while the registration procedure will take place underwater off Ko Kradan. Contact TAT Trang Office Tel. : 0 7521 5867-8 Trang Tourism Coordination Centre Tel. : 0 7521 5867-8 Trang Chamber of Commerce Tel. : 0 2545 3322 Website : www.underwaterwedding.com
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The 24 ASEAN Barred Ground Dove Festival Date : 7 - 8 March 2009 Venue : Khwan Mueang Park, Mueang District, Yala Thais have long believed that doves are creatures which bring good luck to those who rare them. They are also regarded as symbols of purity and peach. Those with qualities specified by ancient texts are believed to bestow great wealth and honor upon their owners. The ASEAN Barred Ground Dove Festival attracts dove-lovers from the southern part of Thailand as well as from neighboring countries. The major highlight is a dove-cooing and red-whiskered bulbul singing competition. Local products are on sale as well. Contact TAT Narathiwat Office Tel. : 0 7351 6144, 0 7352 2411 Yala Municipality Office Tel. : 0 7321 4898 Website : www.tourismthailand.org
Pattaya International Music Festival 2009 Date : March 2009 Venue : Pattaya City Free concerts by an incredible range of local and international musicians. Visitors can also have fun at the Pattaya beach by riding jet skis and boats. Contact Advertising and Public Relations Strategies Division, Tourism Authority of Thailand Tel. : 0 2250 5500 ext. 1511
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TAT Chon Buri Office Tel. : 0 3842 7667, 0 3842 8750 Website : www.tourismthailand.org
Mekong River International Multi-sport Championship Date : 27 - 29 March 2009 Venue : Nong Khai Take in the triathlon races on the longest river in Southeast Asia. Partake in the organized trip “Gateway to Indochina”. Enjoy the food festival and beautiful cultural shows. Contact TAT Udon Thani Office Tel. : 0 5371 7433, 0 5374 4674-5 Website : www.tourismthailand.org
Nong Khai Grand Songkran Festival Date : 6 - 18 April 2009 Venue : Wat Pho Chai and across Nong Khai province You will see beautiful processions to sprinkle water onto the sacred Luang Pho Phra Sai at Wat Pho Chai. Join in the water splashing to celebrate the New Year. Watch Thai traditional sports. Visit our beloved elderly people and ask for their blessing. There’s also cultural activities and all kinds of entertainment on offer during the festival. Contact TAT Udon Thani Office Tel. : 0 4232 5406-7 Nong Khai Provincial Administration Office Tel. : 0 4241 2678 Website : www.Songkran.net, www.tat.or.th/festival
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Bangkok Songkran Festival Date : 11 - 15 April 2009 Venue : Ratchadamnoen Avenue, Khao San Road, Phra Athit Road, Bang Lamphu, Santi Chai Park, Sanam Luang, and temples in Rattanakosin Island Songkran embodies traditional Thai cultural values. The underlying significance of Songkran is the process of cleansing and purification starting the New Year afresh with all that is good and pure. Contact Events Planning Division, Tourism Authority of Thailand Tel. : 0 2250 5500 ext. 3465-8 Website : www.songkran.net, www.tat.or.th/festival
Dok Khun Siang Khaen Songkran Festival Date : 8 - 15 April 2009 Venue : Bueng Kaen Nakhon and Khao Niao Road, Khon Kaen Experience the beauty of dok khun flowers in full yellow bloom throughout this northeastern province. Enjoy the water splashing of Songkran I-San style in the unique Sticky Rice Road (Thanon Khao Niao), as well as demonstrations and a contest for the most delectable local cuisine in the grand city of Khon Kaen. Also see beauty ox-cart processions decorated with beautiful flowers and a beauty pageant. Contact TAT Khon Kaen Office Tel. : 0 4324 4498-9 Khon Kaen Municipality Office Tel. : 0 4322 4029, 0 4322 4032 Website : www.tourismthailand.org
Nakhon Phanom Songkran Festival Date : 12 - 15 April 2009 Venue : Hat Sai Tong Si Khotrabun, Wat Phrathat Phanom Woramahawihan, Renu Nakhon District, Nakhon Phanom Buddhist bathing rituals are performed in accordance with ancient customs and traditions. Scented lustral water is sprinkled over sacred sites such as the Phrathat Phanom stupa–the most sacred and ancient monument of the northeast and the landmark of Nakhon Phanom, holy footprint of the Lord Buddha in the middle of the Mekong River, astrological temples, and Buddha images, as well as plenty of monks. Contact TAT Nakhon Phanom Office Tel. : 0 4251 3490-1 Website : www.tourismthailand.org
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Hat Yai Midnight Songkran Festival
Chiang Mai Songkran Festival
Date : 12 - 15 April 2009 Venue : Niphat Uthit 1 Road and Sanehanuson Road, Hat Yai, Songkhla
Date : 13 - 15 April 2009 Venue : Chiang Mai
Come and splash water to celebrate Songkran and see a pageant of beauty queens. Witness a breath taking procession. Enjoy the fire show, culture performances and all kinds of entertainment during the festival.
Partake in this ancient spectacle in Chiang Mai with merit-making activities, a procession of Buddha images and bathing rituals, the sprinkling of lustral water to seek the blessing of elders, sand-stupa building, folk games, Lanna cultural shows and water throwing.
Contact TAT Hat Yai Office Tel. : 0 7423 1055, 0 7423 8518, 0 7424 3747
Contact TAT Chiang Mai Office Tel. : 0 5324 8604, 0 5324 8607, 0 5324 1466
Hat Yai Municipality Office Tel. : 0 7424 4777 Website : www.tourismthailand.org
Chiang Mai Municipality Office Tel. : 0 5325 2478 Website : www.tourismthailand.org
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Southern Grand Songkran Festival Date : 13 - 15 April 2009 Venue : Si Thamma Sokarat Park, Sanam Na Mueang, I-suan Hall, Nakhon Si Thammarat Making merit to monks, bathing the Phra Phuttha Sihing Buddha images, Songkran processions based on Hinduism, a mini light-and-sound presentation titled Ramayana (an ancient Indian epix), cultural shows, an antique market, and water splashing fun. Contact TAT Nakhon Si Thammarat office Tel. : 0 7534 6515-6 Website : www.tourismthailand.org
Songkran Water Festival (Paradise on the Beach) Date : 13 - 15 April 2009 Venue : Patong Beach, Phuket The traditional gentle sprinkling of water in temples and homes is still practiced, however, overzealous Thais and tourists alike have resorted to throwing water at any passerby that dares to venture out of their hotel. It is a splashy affair for all on the day, and generally a good way to beat the heat in what is normally the hottest month of the year in Thailand. Lately, many revelers have taken to adding talcum powder or flour to the water. The victims of this high spirited affair get a real whitewash. Contact TAT Phuket Office Tel. : 0 7621 1036, 0 7621 2213 Website : www.tourismthailand.org
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Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Songkran Festival Date : 13 - 15 April 2009 Venue : Around Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Merit-making activities and an alms-giving ceremony. Bathing ritual of Buddha images, the releasing of fish and birds to make good karma. Watch the beautiful procession of the Miss Songkran beauty pageant, floral float procession and cultural performances. Contact TAT Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Office Tel. : 0 3524 6076-7 Website : www.tourismthailand.org
Wan Lai Bang Saen Songkran Festival Date : 16 - 17 April 2009 Venue : Bang Saen Beach, Chon Buri An invitation is extended to monks from various temples to give blessings to different household. The sprinkling of lustral water to seek the blessing of elders. Water splashing is vital and a sand-stupa building contest. You can also see folk games, Miss Songkran beauty pageant and sports on this special occasion. Contact TAT Pattaya Office Tel. : 0 3842 7667, 0 3842 8750 Saen Suk Municipality Office Tel. : 0 3835 5353-9 Website : www.tourismthailand.org
Wan Lai Pattaya Songkran Festival Date : 18 - 19 April 2009 Venue : Pattaya, Chon Buri Partake in various activities around Na Kluea, Wat Chai Mongkhon and South Pattaya like the alms-giving ceremony, other religious rituals, folk entertainment, folk games and water splashing. Contact TAT Pattaya Office Tel. : 0 3842 7667, 0 3842 8750 Pattaya City Office Tel. : 0 3841 0200 Website : www.tourismthailand.org
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Si Maha Racha Songkran Festival and “Kong Khao” Ritual Date : 19 - 21 April 2009 Venue : Ko Loi Park, Si Racha District, Chon Buri A religious ritual based around rice, light-and-sound presentation, folk games, local delicacy sales and water splashing. Contact TAT Pattaya Office Tel. : 0 3842 7667, 0 3842 8750 Si Racha Municipality Office Tel. : 0 3832 2281 Website : www.tourismthailand.org
Phra Pradang Songkran Festival Date : 18 - 20 April 2009 Venue : Phra Pradaeng District, Samut Prakan The Phra Pradaeng Songkran Festival, formerly known as the ‘Pak Lat Songkran Festival’, with the notable addition of a colourful and elaborate Songkran procession staged by the Mon, or Raman, residents of Phra Pradaeng. You will enjoy the Songkran procession of decorate floats and a procession of birds and fish. View the exotic game of “Saba” played by the Mon descendants. Also check out the Beauty Queen and King Pegeant. Contact TAT Nakhon Nayok Office Tel. : 0 3731 2282, 0 3731 2284 Phra Pradaeng Municipality Office Tel. : 0 3841 0200 Website : www.tourismthailand.org
Yasothon Bun Bangfai Rocket Festival Date : 8 – 10 May 2009 Venue : Phaya Thaen Park, Mueang District, Yasothon Annual ritual to ensure that the seasonal rains fall at the appropriate time in the planting cycle. In the process, Buddhist merit-making traditions are also observed and reinforced. The festival, which is held over a period of three days, strengthens community spirit. The first day known as “Wan Suk Dip” features a ritual to play homage to Chao Pu, the spirit of the city pillar. The second day is the rocket procession day. Each is escorted by a colourful dance troupe. The rocket are finally launched on the third day in which various rockets and beauty contests are held. It is also a day for the ordination of novices with festive celebrations following merit-making rituals. Contact TAT Ubon Ratchathani Office Tel. : 0 4524 3770-1, 0 4525 0714 Yasothon Municipality Office Tel. : 0 4571 1397 ext. 112 Website : www.tourismthailand.org
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Amazing Thailand Grand Sale 2009
Hua Hin Jazz Festival
Date : 1 June – 31 August 2009 Venue : Department stores, hotels, restaurants, and tourist attraction nationwide
Date : June 2009 Venue : Hua Hin Beach, Prachuap Khiri Khan
If your hobby is shopping, you have to visit the country from 16 June to 15 August. During the sale, we have goods from all over the world from renowned brand names of clothing and accessories to new collections of Thai handicrafts for home decorations. Products made of Thai silk will also be on sale. Moreover, the beautiful folk-designed and hand-woven fabrics can fill your heart with joy. Sports equipment, sportswear and electrical appliances are reasonably priced, too. To make your stay more convenient, different services are meticulously arranged to ensure luxurious convenience while you do your shopping here. We have a wide selection of hotels, serviced apartments, restaurants of various cuisine, theme parks, and travel agencies, to name just a few.
Relax at the Hua Hin Jazz Festival where you will enjoy renowned Thai and international jazz musicians, familiar all-time favorites and contemporary tunes. A true celebration of jazz in a beautiful beach atmosphere where you can also enjoy sumptuous cuisine and refreshments available at different stands along the beach. If you enjoy unique folk handicrafts for souvenirs, this will also be a chance for you to shopping for your loved ones. Contact TAT Phetchaburi Office Tel. : 0 3247 1005-6 Website : www.tourismthailand.org
Contact Tourism Investment Department, Tourism Authority of Thailand Tel. : 0 2250 5500 ext. 2951 Website : www.tourismthailand.org
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Phi Ta Khon Festival
Phuket International Marathon 2009
Date : June - July 2009 Venue : Dan Sai District, Loei
Date : 14 June 2009 Venue : Laguna Beach Resort Phuket
Phi Ta Khon is an utterly unique celebration during the Bun Luang Festival, the biggest yearly merit-making ceremony of entertainment, the locals believe that it is also rain-making ceremony. The most interesting part of the festival is the uniqueness of the costumes. The participants wear a ghost mask, made of a colourful bamboo sticky rice steamer, and dress in a costume made of many pieces of fabric sewn together. The masked “ghosts” have a special bell that they wear around their waists. The first activity, which normally starts in the Phra Uppakhut image. In the afternoon, many colourful parades. Both small and large Phi Ta Khons will participate in the procession of Budhisattra Vessantara, the Buddha’s penultimate incarnation into the city. There is also a rocket procession. Each village will make their own parade for the competition and other cultural performances.
Experience the real challenge with the doable course for all participants due to the hill, tapography of Phuket that is rather difficult to find a flat marathon course as well as enjoy the wonderful scenery.
Contact TAT Udon Thani Office Tel. : 0 4232 5406 Loei Tourism Coordination Centre Tel. : 0 4281 2812 Website : www.tourismthailand.org
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Contact TAT Phuket Office Tel. : 0 7621 1036, 0 7621 2213 Go Adventure Asia Tel. : 0 2236 2931, 0 2237 3221 Website : www.Phuketmarathon.com
The International Wax Sculpture Date : 1 - 31 July 2009 Venue : Thung Si Mueang District, Ubon Ratchathani Join the alms-giving for Asalha Puja and the Khao Phansa Buddhist ceremony. Participate in the ceremony of welcoming His Majesty the King’s royal candle and the international candle-carving competition from various countries, as well as taste “Pha Khao Laeng”, a local food especially prepared for tourists. Contact TAT Ubon Ratchathani Office Tel. : 0 4524 3770-1 Ubon Ratchathani Provincial Office Tel. : 0 4525 4827 Website : www.tourismthailand.org
Pattaya International Marathon Date : 19 July 2009 Venue : Pattaya, Chon Buri The Pattaya International Marathon is one of the most famous marathons in Thailand that is organized yearly. Every year, there are many runners participating from various countries. In all, there are three races ; the full marathon (42 Km), the half marathon (21 Km) and the quarter marathon (10 Km). Contact TAT Pattaya Office Tel. : 0 3842 7667, 0 3842 8750 Pattaya City Office Tel. : 0 3873 1169 Website : www.pattaya-marathon.com
2009 Bangkok International Film Festival Date : July 2009 Venue : Bangkok’s leading cinemas Once again, the Royal Thai Government and the Tourism Authority of Thailand are delighted to welcome film-makers from all over the world and international performing artists, especially from Hollywood. At the Bangkok International Film Festival not only will major studios and independent film enterprises premiere their films for Asia, but they will also attend the exhibition of “Location Thailand and Film Tech”. Here, marketing and business opportunities await those in the competitive film industry. Viewers will enjoy an exciting exhibition of spectacular posters that will be available along with seminars and conferences related to motion pictures. Special tours will be offered, while music fans will be enchanted by jazz concerts which add a special flavour to the event. Contact BKKIFF Centre, Tourism Authority of Thailand Tel. : 0 2250 0047, 0 2250 5500 ext. 1756-7 Website : www.bangkokfilm.org
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H.M. the Queen’s Birthday Celebrations Date : 12 August 2009 Venue : Nationwide An alms-giving ceremony in the morning is followed by a huge festival of music and culture at Sanam Luang in Bangkok to celebrate Her Majesty the Queen’s birthday. You can also appreciate the beauty of the decorations along Ratchadamnoen Avenue. Contact Tourism Authority of Thailand TAT Call Centre 1672 August 12 Celebrations Organising Committee Tel : 0 2356 0051-2 Website : www.tourismthailand.org
Central International Watch Fair 2009 Date : August - September 2009 rd Venue : The Event Hall, 3 Fl., Central Chidlom Bangkok The International Watch Fair where brands and many exclusive collections from over 170 World-Class watchmakers presented. Contact Public Relations Department, Central Chidlom Tel. : 0 2793 7420 Website : www.central.co.th
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The 10 Annual World Gourmet Festival Date : September 2009 Venue : Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok A week-long celebration of outstanding food, superb wines and interactive cooking classes, presented by award-winning master chefs from around the globe-all under one roof! Contact Public Relations Department Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok Tel. : 0 2250 1000
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The 21 Thailand International Swan Boat Races 2009 Date Venue
: 12 - 13 September 2009 : On the Chao Phraya River, in front of the Bang Sai Royal Folk Arts and Crafts Centre, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya
The international Swan Boat Race 22 paddlers and the Thai Traditional Long Boat Races 30 and 55 paddlers, make a big splash with tourists and visitors alike. Contact Events Planning Division, Tourism Authority of Thailand Tel. : 0 2250 5500 ext. 3475-7 TAT Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Office Tel. : 0 3524 6076-7 Website : www.tourismthailand.org
Tennis ATP Thailand Open Date : September 2009 Venue : Impact Arena, Muang Thong Thani See many renowned tennis pros that come to compete in this tournament. Contact Advertising and Public Relations Department Tel. : 0 2250 5500 ext. 1521-4 Website : www.thailandopen.org, www.atptennis.com
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The Illuminated Boat Procession Date : 29 September – 4 October 2009 Venue : Mekong River, Mueang District, Nakhon Phanom This festival was originally aimed at payings respect to the Lord Buddha. Then the competition of the illuminated boat processions was organised to add colour to the event. An invitation is delivered to the public and private sectors, including temples, to participate in the public and private sectors, including temples, to participate in the competition. The illuminated boats lined up in the middle of the Mekong River create an impressive scene for viewers. Contact TAT Nakhon Phanom Office Tel. : 0 4251 3490-1 Nakhon Phanom Provincial Administration Office Tel. : 0 4251 1287, 0 4251 1574 Website : www.tourismthailand.org
Sakon Nakhon Wax Castle Festival Date : 30 September - 4 October 2009 Venue : Sanam Ming Mueang, Suan Somdej Phra Srinagarindra, Sakon Nakhon One of the biggest events in the Ok Phansa Day (The end of Buddhist Lent), the assemble of the wonderful wax castles which are created from the talent artists in the province. Experience the magnificent Wax Castle Procession and feast your eyes on the wonderful tradition of Sakon Nakhon people. Contact TAT Nakhon Phanom Office Tel. : 0 4251 3490-1 Website : www.tourismthailand.org
The End of the Buddhist Lent Festival & Naga Fireball Phenomenon, Nong Khai Date : 30 September - 4 Octorber 2009 Venue : Mekong River, Nong Khai Participate in the “Tak Bat Thevo” alms-giving activity in the morning of Ok Phansa Day (The End of Buddhist Lent), while in the evening see the procession for the Naga, cultural performances, as well as the amazing phenomenon of Naga fireballs at night. Witness also the long boat competition for Ok Phansa Day and taste delicious dishes along food streets. Contact TAT Udon Thani Office Tel. : 0 4232 5406-7 Nong Khai Provincial Administration Office Tel. : 0 4242 0323 Website : www.tourismthailand.org
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Phuket Vegetarian Festival Date : 18 - 26 October 2009 Venue : Various Chinese shrines, Mueang District, Phuket The Thai-Chinese in Phuket have long passed on the vegetarian festival to purify mind and soul by refraining from meat consumption and meditating. Symbolising the presence of the deities throughout the festival are 9 lanterns lit up and placed aloft on Ko Teng poles. On the th 6 day of the festival, there will be religious processions and incredible displays of face-and-body piercing. On the last day, there will be a “Koi Han� ceremony to exorcize ill fortune and a farewell ceremony for the deities at night. Contact TAT Phuket Office Tel. : 0 7621 1036, 0 7621 2213 Website : www.tourismthailand.org
Phuket Thailand Open 2009 Date : October - November 2009 Venue : Karon Beach, Phuket One of the World Tour of SWATCH FIVB Beach Volley World Tour and the current biggest match of Asia. Meet the world top 20 in the excited game on the white sandy beach of Phuket. Contact TAT Phuket Office Tel. : 0 7621 1036, 0 7621 2213 Events Promotion Division, Tourism Authority of Thailand Tel. : 0 2250 5500 ext. 3495-8 Website : www.tourismthailand.org
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Loi Krathong Festival Date : 29 October - 2 November 2009 Venue : Chao Phraya River, Bangkok View the illuminated boat procession, Loi Krathong activities as well as illuminated buildings and historical sites on both sides of the Chao Phraya River. Contact : Tel. : Website :
Events Planning Division, Tourism Authority of Thailand 0 2250 5500 ext. 3470-3 www.tourismthailand.org
Sukhothai Loi Krathong and Candle Festival Date : 1 - 2 November 2009 Venue : Sukhothai Historical Park, Sukhothai Be enchanted by the worshipping ceremonies to “Phra Mae Ya” and King Ramkhamhaeng the Great, the cultural arts and traditional Thai musical performances, Nang Nopphamas Beauty Contest, lighting of lanterns, “Khao Khwan Wan Len Fai” ceremony, as well as a light-and-sound presentation at Wat Mahatat. Contact TAT Phitsanulok: office Tel. : 0 5525 2742-3, 0 5525 9907 Sukhothai Provincial Public Relations Office Tel. : 0 5561 2286 Website : www.tourismthailand.org
Bang Sai Loi Krathong Tam Prathip Festival Date : 2 November 2009 Venue : Bang Sai Royal Folk Arts and Crafts Centre under the Royal patronage of H.M.Queen Sirikit Relive the glorious past of Ayutthaya on this atmospheric night. Enjoy the traditional procession of beauty queens from all 4 regions and experience the relaxing surroundings of a floating market demonstration. Contact TAT Phre Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Office Tel. : 0 3524 6076-7 Bang Sai Royal Folk Arts and Crafts Centre Tel. : 0 3536 6090-2 Website : www.tourismthailand.org
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Chiang Mai Yi Peng Festival
Tak’s Loi Krathong Sai Festival
Date : 1 - 3 November 2009 Venue : Chiang Mai Municipality Office, Chiang Mai
Date : 31 October - 2 November 2009 Venue : Tak
Participate in the launching of lanterns to worship Phrathat Chulamani, and take in the competition of a Yi Peng procession, as well as Lanna cultural performances and various fowms of entertainment.
This festival involves Royal lamps, and a light-and-sound spectacular on a water screen. Other attractions include a beauty pageant and a beauty pageant and a bazaar of local handicrafts.
Contact TAT Chiang Mai Office Tel. : 0 5324 8604, 0 5324 1466
Contact TAT Tak Office Tel. :
Chiang Mai Municipality Office Tel. : 0 5325 2578 Website : www.tourismthailand.org
Tak Municipality Office Tel. : 0 5551 6555, 0 5551 1678 Website : www.tourismthailand.org
0 5551 4341-3
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Surin Elephant Roundup
River Kwai Bridge Week
Date : 21 - 22 November 2009 Venue : Si Narong Stadium, Mueang District, Surin
Date : 24 November – 5 December 2009 Venue : River Kwai Bridge, Mueang District, Kanchanaburi
Experience the lifestyle of the Kuai or Suai people, the locals whose lives are interwoven with the elephants from the past. Enjoy the elephant shows and sports played by the elephants, etc. View the Pakam Spirit Worshiooing Ceremony, sales of local products, along with other forms of entertainment.
Watch the light-and-sound show in remembrance of the bridge and the construction of the “Death Railway” during World War II. (There are 4 sets of headphones available in English, Japanese, Chinese and German.) A wealth of entertainment and exhibitions are on display.
Contact TAT Surin Office Tel. : 0 4451 8152 Website : www.surin.go.th, www.gov.surinpoc.com www.tourismthailand.org
Contact TAT Kanchanaburi Office Tel. : 0 3451 1200, 0 3451 2500
Laguna Phuket Triathlon Date : 6 December 2009 Venue : Hat Bang Tao, Thalang District, Phuket The competition among the “iron men” from Thailand and international countries includes swimming, cycling and marathon racing. Also, there are activities to encourage the participants to experience the adventure routes along Phuket’s tourist attractions. Contact TAT Phuket Office Tel. : 0 7621 1036, 0 7621 2213 Website : www.lagunaphukettriathlon.com www.tourismthailand.org
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Kanchanaburi Provincial Administration Office Tel. : 0 3451 1778 Website : www.tourismthailand.org
Bangkok Marathon 2009
Phuket King’s Cup Regatta
Date : November 2009 Venue : Sanam Chai, Phra Nakhon District, Bangkok
Date : December 2009 Venue : Phuket
The starting point is at Sanam Chai, in front of the Royal Palace, passing many fascinating tourist attractions. The race is divided into 36 categories ; 42.185 kilometre-marathon, 21.10 kilometre-halfmarathon and 10.55 kilometre-quarter-marathon.
After first being launched in 1987 to celebrate His Majesty the th th King’s 60 birthday, the King’s 60 birthday, the King’s Cup Regatta has been held annually and featured many international participants. See for yourself how these yachting people compete from Phuket to Phang-nga before moving on to Krabi on the Andanan sea, where the enchanting scenic beauty will take your breath away. This is the biggest and most impressive regatta in Asia.
Contact Tourism Authority of Thailand TAT Call Centre 1672 The Running Association of Thailand Tel. : 0 2280 7667-8 Website : www.bkkmarathon.com, www.tourismthailand.org
Contact TAT Phuket Office Tel. : 0 7621 1036, 0 7621 2213 Regatta Office Office Tel. : 0 7627 3380 Website : www.tourismthailand.org, www.kingscup.com
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H.M. the King’s Birthday Date : 5 December 2009 Venue : Nationwide Celebrate in the auspicious occasion of our beloved king’s birthday! An alms-giving ceremony in the morning is followed by a huge festival of music and culture at Sanam Luang in Bangkok to celebrate His Majesty the King’s birthday. You can also appreciate the beauty of the decorations along Ratchadamnoen Avenue. Contact Foundation of King Rama 9 Tel. : 0 2356 0050-2, 0 2356 0203 Fax. : 0 2356 0051-2 Website : www.belovedking.com E-mail : foundation@au.edu
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Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya World Heritage Fair
Bangkok Jazz Festival 2009 Date : December 2009 Venue : Sanam Suea Pa, Dusit District, Bangkok
Date : 11 - 20 December 2009 Venue : Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Histirical Park, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya
Relax in the chilled-out atmosphere inspired by jazz music from many international well-known artists.
Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya was once the glorious capital of Thailand. It was also a centre of trade and government, and possessed a long period of prosperity. Be amazed by the light-and-sound show, the exhibitions on Ayutthaya as a World Heritage Site, as well as the cultural performances. Having fun shopping for a variety of OTOP product is another activity.
Contact Advertising and Public Relations Strategies Division, Tourism Authority of Thailand Tel. : 0 2250 5500 ext. 1511 Website : www.tourismthailand.org
Contact TAT Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Office Tel. : 0 3524 6076-7, 0 3532 2730-1 Website : www.tourismthailand.org
Bangkok’s Countdown Date : 31 December 2009 – 1 January 2010 Venue : At the Central World Plaza and around Rattanakosin Island, Bangkok Help ring in the year 2010 and have a great time with traditional Thai activities by making New Year wishes at 9 auspicious places. Contact Events Planning Division,Tourism Authority of Thailand Tel. : 0 2250 5500 ext. 3465-8 TAT Call Centre 1672 Website : www.tourismthailand.org
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Printed in Thailand by Promotional Material Production Division, Marketing Services Department, Tourism Authority of Thailand for free distribution. www.tourismthailand.org E/NOV 2008 The contents of this publication are subject to change without notice.
Ayutthaya Songkran Festival