Chonburi Buffalo Racing Festival
ประเพณีวิ่งควาย
Next Date
Oct 12, 2025
Duration
1 day
Unique Thai tradition dating back over 100 years. Water buffalo race through muddy fields, ridden by farmers. Part harvest celebration, part hilarious spectacle.
Upcoming Dates
2025
October 12, 2025
2026
October 31, 2026
2027
October 20, 2027
This festival follows the lunar calendar, so dates vary each year
Best Locations
Held the weekend before Ok Phansa (end of Buddhist Lent). Arrive early for good viewing spots.
Loi Krathong
ลอยกระทง
Thailand's most romantic festival. Thais float decorated banana-leaf baskets (krathong) on rivers and waterways to pay respect to the water goddess and release negativity. Celebrated on the full moon of the 12th Thai lunar month.
Yi Peng Lantern Festival
ยี่เป็ง
Northern Thailand's spectacular lantern festival, coinciding with Loi Krathong. Thousands of paper lanterns (khom loi) are released into the night sky, creating a magical scene.
Songkran Water Festival
สงกรานต์
Thai New Year and the world's biggest water fight. Originally a Buddhist cleansing ritual, it has evolved into a massive water battle celebration. The country essentially shuts down for a week.
Phi Ta Khon Ghost Festival
ผีตาโขน
Vibrant Buddhist festival in Dan Sai featuring colorful ghost masks and costumes. Combines animist traditions with Buddhist celebrations of Buddha's life.
Rocket Festival
บุญบั้งไฟ
Ancient Isan tradition of launching homemade bamboo rockets to encourage the rain gods before rice planting season. Features music, dancing, and spectacular rocket launches.
Chiang Mai Flower Festival
มหกรรมไม้ดอกไม้ประดับ
Annual celebration of Chiang Mai's floral heritage featuring elaborate flower floats, parades, and garden displays during the peak blooming season.
Thai Name
ประเพณีวิ่งควาย
Category
CulturalRegion
EastDuration
1 day
Typical Month
October
Calendar Type
Lunar Calendar
Dates vary yearly
Book in Advance
Accommodation and transportation fill up quickly during major festivals. Book several weeks or months ahead.
Check the Calendar
Lunar festivals have varying dates. Confirm exact dates closer to your travel time.
Respect Local Customs
Dress modestly, especially at religious festivals. Follow local guidance and be respectful of traditions.