So Many Festivals!

When we first moved to Thailand, one of the first words we learned was "sanuk" -  it means "fun" and there are plenty of opportunities here for fun!  Throughout the year there are many traditional festivals.  On this page are some photos from two of our favorite festivals:  Loy Kratong and the Flower Festival.  

 

Loy Kratong

Under the first full moon in November, this three day celebration marks the end of the rainy season.  In one of the traditions, large paper fire balloons are launched into the night sky, carrying our prayers to the heavens...   The young monks at the temples assist in sending off the balloons (and they have enormous fun!)

This lunar festival is dedicated to the Goddess of the Waters, Mae Khong Kha and the rivers are honored with beautiful "Kratongs" - little boats made from banana leaf and lovingly decorated with incense, candles and flowers.  The kratongs are floated in the rivers, creating a twinkling stream of light.  People offer apologies for any harm they did to the water, they make wishes as they float their Kratong and give thanks for a bountiful rice harvest. 

It is a time of joy and renewal.

The city is decorated with hand-made paper lanterns. 
And, there are several wonderful parades with lavish floats, lovely women in traditional costumes and charming children!

Chiang Mai Flower Festival

In February, just before the Hot Season begins, we enjoy the Flower Festival in Chiang Mai.  The highlight is the parade - which is so beautiful and "sanuk mak mak"  (alot of fun!)

There are floats decorated with flowers and other natural elements, dancers, tribal groups, marching bands and, of course, there are lovely Thai ladies in traditional costume.

This year, several of Deb's Flower Festival
photos were featured by "Yahoo News"

 

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All photos copyright Deb Swingholm 2008 . 
All rights reserved.