Explore Thailand's Colorful Festivals in October: The Ultimate Guide to Cultural Celebrations

October in Thailand is a month brimming with festivities. It’s a time to immerse yourself in Thai traditions and culture through various events, such as the Royal Barge Procession, the end of Buddhist Lent, and the Vegetarian Festival. If you’re planning a trip to Thailand this month, here are some celebrations you won't want to miss—mark your calendar!

Written by Linh Yang (Local expert)Updated on 07-10-2024

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1. The Royal Barge Procession

This royal water procession will feature 52 barges, including four main royal vessels: the Suphannahong, Narai Song Suban, Anantanakkharat, and Anekkachatphutchong.

2,200 rowers will guide the ceremonial boats along the Chao Phraya River, from Wasukri Pier to Wat Arun, in a formation stretching 1.2 kilometers long and 90 meters wide. The event will take place from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM on October 27.

The public can view rehearsals in designated areas along both sides of the Chao Phraya River, from Rama VIII Bridge to Wat Arun, from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM.
Rehearsals are scheduled for October 3 and 10, with the final two dress rehearsals on October 15 and 22.
The main ceremony will occur on October 27.

2. Vegetarian Festival

Visitors to Thailand during this period, especially from October 2 to 11, are invited to experience one of the most unique and vibrant annual events in the kingdom: the Vegetarian Festival.
In the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar, Thai people of Chinese descent observe a vegetarian diet for nine or ten days for spiritual purification, merit accumulation, good luck, and the promise of prosperity and longevity.

Visitors can witness grand parades of Chinese deities and spectacular displays of spiritual beliefs in major cities with large Thai-Chinese communities, as well as enjoy delicious vegetarian dishes.

• Chon Buri: October 1-12 at the Na Jasa Tai Chue Shrine in Ang Sila Subdistrict
• Bangkok:

October 2-11 at the Chaloem Phra Kiat Gate Pavilion on Yaowarat Street and surrounding areas
October 3-11 (Amazing J Fest 2: Light Up the City) at Chula Soi 5 (SuanLuang Square - Banthat Thong)

• Chumphon:

October 2-11 at the Chumphon Welfare Charity Foundation
October 2-11 at the Chao Mae Lim Ko Niao Shrine

• Songkhla: October 2-11 at various shrines, foundations, and associations in Hat Yai District
• Narathiwat: October 2-11 at the Seng Mu Than Nam Chai Foundation, Su-ngai Kolok District
• Phuket: October 3-11 at various shrines around the province
• Nakhon Sawan: October 3-11 at the Napha Shrine
• Phang-nga: October 3-11 at seven shrines around the province
• Ranong: October 3-11 at the Mueang Ranong Multipurpose Field
• Trang: October 3-11 at the Mueang Trang Municipality, Wisetkul Street

3. Hello Hatyai

This lively festival in the southern city of Hatyai celebrates the region's cultural diversity. Expect a mix of concerts, parades, street markets, and performances that blend Thai, Malaysian, and Chinese influences. It's a great opportunity to discover local crafts, food, and music, making it a perfect stop for tourists exploring southern Thailand.

4. Khom San Duang Festival, Lamphun

A lesser-known but equally charming event, the Khom San Duang Festival in Lamphun features locals releasing thousands of khom loi (lanterns) into the sky. This festival is often celebrated alongside other regional activities and ceremonies, creating a magical atmosphere that lights up the night sky with warm, glowing lanterns.

5. Ok Phansa or End of Buddhist Lent

The day marking the end of the three-month Buddhist Lent falls on the full moon of the eleventh lunar month in Thailand. This year, it will be celebrated on October 17.
Illuminated Boat Procession

The festival features beautifully decorated boats and rafts, adorned with handmade candles and lanterns, floating down the famous river to pay homage to the Buddha and make offerings to the mythical naga, a serpent said to reside in the river. The ceremony is also believed to cleanse individuals of sadness and troubles, bringing good fortune. Additionally, there is a competition for decorating large boats with lights.

• Rap Bua Festival

Date: October 10-18, 2024
Location: Wat Bang Phli Yai Nai, Samut Prakan

This is the only ancient Buddhist tradition of its kind in Thailand, highlighted by the boat procession of a replica of the Buddhist image Luangpho To along the Khlong Samrong, as well as the Rap Bua (lotus receiving) activity of the residents of Bang Phli District. It will be a 9-day and 9-night event, featuring food stalls, shops, and an amusement park.

• Tak Bat Devo Festival

Date: October 5, 2024
Location: Wat Phra Phutthabat Phu Pan Kham, Khon Kaen

• Wax Castle Festival and Long Boat Race

Date: October 12-17, 2024
Location: Clock Tower of Sakon Nakhon, Wat Phrathat Choeng Chum, Sakon Nakhon

• Tak Bat Devo Festival

Date: October 17, 2024
Location: Wat Phrathat Khao Noi, Mueang District, Nan

• Chak Phra Festival, Robes Offering and Long Boat Race

Date: October 14-22, 2024
Location: Near the Tapi River, on Na Mueang Street and Ban Don Street, Surat Thani

6. Light Phenomenon at Phanom Rung (Sunset)

This natural phenomenon occurs at the ancient Khmer temple complex of Phanom Rung in northeastern Thailand. Twice a year, the setting sun aligns perfectly with the temple's 15 doors, creating a stunning visual display. The October event attracts visitors eager to witness this once-in-a-lifetime moment in the historic site surrounded by rich history and nature.

7. Thailand Coffee Hub 2024

For coffee lovers, the Thailand Coffee Hub 2024 event in Bangkok offers an exciting opportunity to explore the burgeoning specialty coffee scene in Thailand. Showcasing local producers, baristas, and coffee innovators, the event includes workshops, tastings, and networking opportunities with experts from around the world. Whether you're a coffee enthusiast or a professional, this event is a great way to savor the unique coffee culture in Thailand.

These diverse festivals provide a glimpse into the rich traditions and vibrant celebrations of the country, making October an ideal time to explore the cultural tapestry of Thailand.

>>> Discover 10 more famous festivals that tourists cannot miss in Thailand

💡▶️ To prepare for your trip to Thailand, continue reading these helpful articles:

• Top 20 Best Restaurants in Bangkok
• Thailand in October: Weather, What to Do and Where to Go
• Train Travel in Thailand: Everything You Need to Know in 2024
• Bangkok's authentic side: Top 10 non-touristy things to do