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In Thailand, October is a month full of celebrations. It's a chance to dive into Thai customs and culture. You can enjoy many activities, like the Vegetarian Festival, the end of Buddhist Lent, and the Royal Barge Procession.
Here are some events you won't want to miss if you travel to Thailand this month. Be sure to mark them on your calendar!
Dates: October 27,2024
Location: Bangkok
On 27 October 2024, Thailand will host the grand Royal Barge Procession. This event celebrates His Majesty The King’s 6th Cycle Birthday Anniversary. This grand event will feature 52 barges, including the Suphannahong, Narai Song Suban, Anantanakkharat, and Anekkachatphutchong.
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The Royal Barge Procession (Source: Sala Blog)
A total of 2,200 oarsmen will row these barges along the Chao Phraya River. They will cover a distance of 1.2 kilometers from Wasukri Pier to Wat Arun. The procession will take place from 15.00 – 18.00.
The public is invited to view the royal barges and rehearsals:
Dates: October 2-11
Location: Phuket, Bangkok, Chon Buri, Chumphon, Phang-nga, Trang, etc.
From 1-12 October 2024, Thailand’s Chinese communities will celebrate the annual Vegetarian Festival with grand processions, spiritual displays, and delicious vegetarian food. This nine or ten-day festival focuses on spiritual cleansing, merit-making, and bringing good fortune.
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Picture of men performing ( Source: Phuket Blog)
Key locations to experience the festivities:
Join in and enjoy the rich culture and vibrant atmosphere!
Dates: October 5,6
Location: Pracharom Street and Paradon Street, Hat Yai, Songkhla
Experience the vibrant Hatyai Cultural Festival, a lively celebration of southern Thailand's rich cultural diversity. With a mix of Thai, Malaysian, and Chinese influences, the festival features concerts, parades, street markets, and performances.
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Hatyai Cultural Festival (Source: Resident Advisor)
Visitors can enjoy local crafts, tasty food, and traditional music. This makes it a must-see for tourists in Hatyai and the southern region. Don’t miss this colorful october 2024’s event that showcases the unique blend of cultures in southern Thailand!
Read more: 7 Most Mesmerizing Shows You Can't Miss in Thailand
Dates: September 27 – November 15, 2024
Location: Wat Phra That Hariphunchai, Lamphun
Khom San Duang Festival Lamphun ( Source: Tourism Authority of Thailand)
The Khom Saen Duang Festival takes place every year with the Yi Peng Festival during the Loy Krathong celebrations. This festival is an important cultural and spiritual event in Lamphun, Thailand. This festival serves as a Buddhist offering to the revered Phra That Hariphunchai Temple and honors Queen Chamadevi, the founding ruler of Lamphun.
Festival Highlights:
This festival is a wonderful opportunity to engage with Northern Thailand's vibrant traditions while partaking in spiritual and cultural activities.
Dates: October 8-18, 2024
Location: Mekong River, Mueang District, Nakhon Phanom
Ok Phansa or End of Buddhist Lent (Source: Fah Thai Magazine)
Ok Phansa, or the End of Buddhist Lent, is an important festival in Thailand. It marks the end of a three-month period of Buddhist Lent. During this time, monks follow strict rules and do not travel. It typically occurs on the full moon of the eleventh lunar month, and this year, it will be celebrated on October 17.
The festival features beautifully decorated boats and rafts. They are adorned with handmade candles and lanterns. These boats drift along the famous river. The event honors the Buddha and offers gifts to the mythical naga, a serpent thought to live in the water. The ritual is thought to cleanse participants of sorrow and worries, ushering in good fortune. Moreover, a competition is held for the best-decorated boats, with large vessels illuminated by vibrant lights.
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. It features a boat procession with a replica of the Buddhist image Luangpho To. This event takes place along the Khlong Samrong. Residents of Bang Phli District also participate in the Rap Bua, or lotus receiving, activity. It will be a 9-day and 9-night event, featuring food stalls, shops, and an amusement park.
Date: October 5, 2024
Location: Wat Phra Phutthabat Phu Pan Kham, Khon Kaen
Date: October 12-17, 2024
Location: Clock Tower of Sakon Nakhon, Wat Phrathat Choeng Chum, Sakon Nakhon
Date: October 17, 2024
Location: Wat Phrathat Khao Noi, Mueang District, Nan
Date: October 14-22, 2024
Location: Near the Tapi River, on Na Mueang Street and Ban Don Street, Surat Thani
Dates: October 5-7, 2024 (starting at 5:55 PM)
Location: Phanom Rung Historical Park, Chaloem Phra Kiat District, Buri Ram
Light Phenomenon at Phanom Rung (Source: TAT Newsroom)
This natural phenomenon takes place at the ancient Khmer temple complex of Phanom Rung in northeastern Thailand. Twice each year, the setting sun aligns perfectly with the temple's 15 doors, resulting in a breathtaking visual spectacle. The event in October attracts visitors who want to enjoy this special moment at a historic site. This site is full of rich history and surrounded by nature.
Visiting Thailand during October offers a unique experience, as it coincides with some significant cultural and religious festivals. Here are specific tips for travelers during this time:
What to do: Wear white clothing if you wish to join the local community in showing respect for the festival's customs. Avoid eating meat, onions, garlic, and certain strong spices, as part of the local dietary rules during the festival.
Safety tip: If watching the processions, be mindful of safety. Some rituals are intense, and it’s best to keep a respectful distance to avoid injury or offending locals.
October is still part of the rainy season in Thailand, though it begins to taper off. Be prepared for sudden downpours, especially in Bangkok and northern areas. Bring a good raincoat, waterproof shoes, and pack accordingly.
What to do: Visit a local temple to witness merit-making ceremonies. In some regions, you’ll find candlelight processions and traditional longboat races that make for a festive atmosphere.
Respect temple etiquette: Dress modestly, with shoulders and knees covered, and follow temple rules, such as removing shoes before entering.
While October is less touristy than peak season, festivals attract both locals and travelers. Be ready for large crowds, especially in festival hubs like Phuket and Chiang Mai. Book accommodations early and expect increased traffic around major events.
Be mindful of festival-specific rules, such as abstaining from alcohol and meat consumption during the Phuket Vegetarian Festival. Familiarize yourself with local customs, especially when participating in temple-based rituals.
Local festivals often feature street food stalls, souvenir stands, and donation opportunities at temples. Ensure you carry enough cash, as some places might not accept cards, especially in smaller towns and rural areas.
By using these tips, we hope you have a respectful and enriching experience at Thailand's vibrant October festivals. If you have any questions about our tour services, please contact us. Asia King Travel is here to help you as soon as possible!
Read more: Thailand gets largest number of foreign tourists in Southeast Asia 2024
