This summer, a number of well-known annual events return at locations throughout the country. If you're looking for a destination with exciting and enriching activities, check out the list below for fun and festive hotspots.
Phetchaburi
Phra Nakhon Khiri Heritage Park is lit up until Sunday in celebration of the Phra Nakhon Khiri Festival. Standing on a hilltop, the site is a time capsule transporting visitors back to the reign of King Rama IV, who embraced Western culture and built a summer palace and temple that tastefully synthesised Thai, Neoclassical and Chinese architectural elements.
There's a stage for cultural performances, and an antique market sells a range of local specialities and treats. In the evenings, the compound becomes an ideal vantage point to admire a spectacular firework display that lights up the night sky.
Nakhon Ratchasima
Until April 3, Thao Suranari Memorial Fair 2023 honours the legendary warrior Thao Suranari and her troops, who defended the city from King Anouvong's assault in 1826.
Among activities are relaying of the event's starting flame, a ceremony paying homage to Thao Suranari's relics, a procession, dance performance, Thai silk fashion presentations and exhibitions on Thao Suranari and the history of Korat city. There are also Korat music performances in addition to a Red Cross fair offering a selection of regional foods and crafts.
Prasat Muang Tam.
Surat Thani
This Sunday and Monday, pilgrims will congregate at the Srivijaya-style City Pillar Shrine to witness the celebrated ritual of Hae Pha Hom Phra That. Visitors can participate in a procession wherein a long, holy yellow fabric is wrapped around the base of Phra That Si Surat, also known as Phra That Khao Tha Phet stupa.
Buri Ram
The Prasat Muang Tam festival to honour gods will take place on March 31. The festival site, a palace built during the reign of King Jayavarman V, was a Hindu holy sanctuary in the late 10th and early 11th centuries.
The event will feature a light-and-sound show, merit-making ceremony, cultural performances, beauty contest, and a market featuring regional items and cuisine.
Ranong
Ranong Hot Springs Festival will take over the Mueang Ranong Municipal Office on March 31 to celebrate Thai-style onsen culture. Natural hot springs are available for visitors to bathe in, the waters said to improve blood circulation and decrease stress and discomfort. A Red Cross fair, folk song competition, an antique market and cultural performances also enliven the festival programme.
Hot springs in Ranong. (Photos : Karnjana Karnjanatawe)
