Map of Thailand
CulturalNortheast

Rocket Festival

บุญบั้งไฟ

Next Date

May 9, 2026

Duration

2-3 days

Overview

Ancient Isan tradition of launching homemade bamboo rockets to encourage the rain gods before rice planting season. Features music, dancing, and spectacular rocket launches.

When & Where
Festival dates and best locations to experience it

Upcoming Dates

2026

May 9, 2026

2027

May 29, 2027

This festival follows the lunar calendar, so dates vary each year

Best Locations

What to Expect
Main highlights and attractions
Giant rocket launches
Parades
Mo Lam music
Dancing competitions
Practical Tips
Insider advice for attending

Yasothon's festival is the most famous. Rockets can be huge - some weigh over a ton.

Related Festivals
Other cultural festivals and celebrations in northeast Thailand

Loi Krathong

ลอยกระทง

cultural

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.

Nov 5, 2025

Yi Peng Lantern Festival

ยี่เป็ง

cultural

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.

Nov 5, 2025

Songkran Water Festival

สงกรานต์

cultural

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.

Apr 13, 2026

Phi Ta Khon Ghost Festival

ผีตาโขน

cultural

Vibrant Buddhist festival in Dan Sai featuring colorful ghost masks and costumes. Combines animist traditions with Buddhist celebrations of Buddha's life.

Jun 26, 2026

Chiang Mai Flower Festival

มหกรรมไม้ดอกไม้ประดับ

cultural

Annual celebration of Chiang Mai's floral heritage featuring elaborate flower floats, parades, and garden displays during the peak blooming season.

Feb 6, 2026

Chonburi Buffalo Racing Festival

ประเพณีวิ่งควาย

cultural

Unique Thai tradition dating back over 100 years. Water buffalo race through muddy fields, ridden by farmers. Part harvest celebration, part hilarious spectacle.

Oct 12, 2025
Quick Facts

Thai Name

บุญบั้งไฟ

Category

Cultural

Region

Northeast

Duration

2-3 days

Typical Month

May

Calendar Type

Lunar Calendar

Dates vary yearly

Plan Your Visit
Don't miss out on this experience

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.