Labor Day

Wednesday, May 1, 2013 is Labor Day. This is a public holiday in Thailand, but not much happens to commemorate this day other than most government and office workers will have the day off.

Coronation Day

Sunday, May 5, 2013 is Coronation Day. The fact that it occurs on a Sunday this year should mean that Monday, May 6, 2013 will be a substitution holiday.

Royal Ploughing Ceremony

The actual date of the Royal Ploughing Ceremony is decided by astrologers near to the time, but it usually occurs at some point in May. This holiday is also a commemoration of Farmer’s Day.

Rocket Festival – Isaan

Friday-Sunday, May 10-12, 2013 is the Rocket Festival which takes place over the second weekend in May. This festival is celebrated in a number of locations in Isaan but one of the best places to visit would be Yasathon.

Inthakin City Pillar Festival

The Inthakin City Pillar Festival takes place over the course of 6 days in Chiang Mai each year. The date for the 2013 has yet to be given. It usually occurs at some point around the waning of moon of the sixth lunar month (around May 2013).

Visaka Bucha วันวิสาขบูชา

Friday, May 24, 2013 is the most important of all the Buddhist festivals in Thailand. Vikasa Bucha Day takes place on the full moon of the sixth lunar month, and it commemorates the day on which the Buddha was born, became enlightened, and died.

One of the grand Songkran celebrations in Thailand. Participate in the Opening Ceremony of the Songkran Festival 2013 with a wonderful procession around Chiang Mai city. Pour some Thai scented water on a Buddha image and elders, experience the cultural performances and traditions in the Northern style as well as enjoy various food along the streets.

Rice-fields predominate the landscape of Chainat Province where rice is a major commercial crop grown. Hay, a by-product of rice cultivation, is available in great abundance. This has led to an initiative by the villagers to creatively transform this agricultural by-product into a craft and an economic asset.

Hay from the fields is used to make bird-shaped hay stacks known as the "Hoon Fang". Colourful, in various shapes and forms and true to life, these hay structures, the key attraction of the Chainat Hoon Fang Straw Bird Fair are so extraordinary, they have become the province's most popular attraction. To produce a top quality, intricate piece of handicraft from the hay, the farmers also grade the hay which is then crafted into miniature straw birds. The miniature straw birds have become a popular item among tourists as a souvenir of their visit to Chainat.

The Chainat Straw-Bird Festival features a variety of activities such as Straw-Bird Contests, "Young Talent" Contests, village handicraft competitions, a Light-And-Sound show, special performances, sales of products under the "One Village. One Product" theme, and exhibits by the state sector.

The Chainat Bird Park on Phaholyothin Road offers an added attraction. The park which stretches over an area of 300 rai houses a 26 rai bird enclosure, the biggest of its kind in Asia. Over 200 species co-habit within this space. There are also a further 63 other individual bird enclosures of varying sizes to house predatory birds and the smaller birds.

Contact information:
Tourism Authority of Thailand , Suphan Buri Office
Tel: +66 (0) 3553 6030
Fax: +66 (0) 3553 6030
E-mail: tatsuphan@tat.or.th

Scroll down for map:
Latitude: 15.191817 (15° 11' 30.54'' N)
Longitude: 100.129019 (100° 7' 44.47'' E)

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
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For other uses, see Valentine and Valentine's Day (disambiguation).
"Valentines" redirects here. For the German/Italian wine grape also known as Valentines, see Valentines (grape).
Saint Valentine's Day
Saint Valentine's Day
Antique Valentine's card
Also called     Valentine's Day
Feast of Saint Valentine
Observed by     People in many countries;
Anglican Communion (see calendar), Eastern Orthodox Church (see calendar), Lutheran Church (see calendar)
Type     Cultural, Christian, commercial
Significance     Feast day of Saint Valentine; the celebration of Love and affection
Date     February 14 (fixed by the Western Christian Churches); July 6 (fixed by the Eastern Christian Churches)
Observances     Sending greeting cards and gifts, dating, church services

Saint Valentine's Day, commonly known as Valentine's Day,[1][2][3] or the Feast of Saint Valentine,[4] is observed on February 14 each year. It is celebrated in many countries around the world, although it remains a working day in most of them.

St. Valentine's Day began as a liturgical celebration of one or more early Christian saints named Valentinus. The most popular martyrology associated with Saint Valentine was that he was imprisoned for performing weddings for soldiers who were forbidden to marry and for ministering to Christians, who were persecuted under the Roman Empire; during his imprisonment, he is said to have healed the daughter of his jailer Asterius. Legend states that before his execution he wrote "from your Valentine" as a farewell to her.[5][6] Today, Saint Valentine's Day is an official feast day in the Anglican Communion,[7] as well as in the Lutheran Church.[8] The Eastern Orthodox Church also celebrates Saint Valentine's Day, albeit on July 6th and July 30th, the former date in honor of the Roman presbyter Saint Valentine, and the latter date in honor of Hieromartyr Valentine, the Bishop of Interamna (modern Terni).[9][10]

The day was first associated with romantic love in the circle of Geoffrey Chaucer in the High Middle Ages, when the tradition of courtly love flourished. By the 15th century, it had evolved into an occasion in which lovers expressed their love for each other by presenting flowers, offering confectionery, and sending greeting cards (known as "valentines").[1][3] Valentine's Day symbols that are used today include the heart-shaped outline, doves, and the figure of the winged Cupid. Since the 19th century, handwritten valentines have given way to mass-produced greeting cards.

read more : http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Valentine%27s_Day

On the full moon night of the twelfth lunar month, the tide in the rivers is highest and the moon at its brightest, creating a romantic setting ideal for lovers. The Thai people choose this day to hold the 'Loy Kratong' festival, or the 'festival of light.' Loy Kratong is one of the two most recognized festivals in the country.

Loy Kratong is probably the most picturesque and beautiful of all Thai celebrations. 'Loy' literally means 'to float,' while 'kratong' refers to the lotus-shaped receptacle which can float on the water. Originally, the kratong was made of banana leaves or the layers of the trunk of a banana tree or a spider lily plant. A kratong contains food, betel nuts, flowers, joss sticks, candle and coins. The making of a kratong is much more creative these days as many more materials are available.

The Loy Kratong ritual is a simple one. One needs only to light the candles and the joss sticks, make one's wishes and let it float away with the current of a river or a canal.

On that day, thousands of people will gather beside the canals and rivers. With kratong in hands, they light the candle, put some coins in the kratong and silently make a wish, and carefully place their kratongs in the water and release them to the current.

They watch intently as the float drifts silently downstream, hoping that the candle will not go out. Its flame is said to signify longevity, fulfillment of wishes and release from sins. Altogether it is considered a romantic night for couples or lovers. Couples who make a wish together on Loy Kratong are thought to stay together in the future.

Origins
Different legends surround the origins of Loy Kratong. The most popular version is it was an expression of gratitude to the goddess of water 'Phra Mae Kongka' for having extensively used, and sometimes polluted, the water from the rivers and canals. It is also in part a thanksgiving for her bounty in providing water for the livelihood of the people.

Some believe the festival originates from Buddhism. They say the offering of flowers, candles and joss-sticks is a tribute of respect to the footprint of the Lord Buddha on the sandy beach of the Narmaha River in India, as well as to the great Serpent and dwellers of the underwater world, after the Lord Buddha's visit to their watery realm. It is possible that this is derived from a Hindu festival that pays tribute to the god Vishnu, who meditates at the center of the ocean.

Others believe that the floral kratong is offered to the pagoda containing the Lord Buddha's topknot, which was cut off at his self-ordination and is now in heaven. Another explanation is that it is a way to pay respect to one's ancestors.

Whatever the true origin, the practice of Loy Kratong first began in the ancient kingdom of Sukhothai in the 13th century. A young queen named Nang Noppamas was believed to be the one who made a small boat laden with candles and incense and floated it down the river. The name Nang Noppamas has been associated with Loy Kratong ever since.

Today, Loy Kratong offers a unique occasion to celebrate. It's a good time for people to make wishes and look to the future as they float their floral offerings along the waterways.

Where to celebrate
Although celebrated nationwide, Loy Kratong is particularly delightful in the provinces of Sukhothai, Chiang Mai, Ayutthaya and Bangkok.

As the place of origin of the festival, Sukhothai rightly remains the focal point of the celebrations. The festival comes with a spectacular light-and-sound show held in the ancient and traditional setting of the Sukhothai historical park.

Chiang Mai is another prime site to celebrate Loy Kratong. The festival is known in northern dialect as 'Yi Peng.' The largest kratongs are decorated floats, paraded through the town on trucks. The colorfully lit floats form a long glittering parade as they make their way to the river.

Meanwhile, up above thousands of 'khom loy' (floating lanterns) drift into the night sky. These large balloon-like lanterns are released at temples and sometimes from private homes in the hope that misfortune flies away with them.

The Chao Phraya River is one of the main waterways to celebrate the Loy Kratong festival. In Bangkok, riverside hotels organize special celebrations for their guests. In some hotels, swimming pools are turned into a temporary river for the Loy Kratong celebration.

Environmental Issues
Although Loy Kratong is an old Thai tradition, celebrated continuously since ancient times, the use of modern foam materials to make the kratong has taken its toll on the environment.

Today, instead of synthetic foams, natural materials such as the original banana leaves or even bread have been used to make the floats. In addition, kratong are increasingly being released in small canals or swimming pools to prevent pollution in the rivers. In this way, the old tradition can still be preserved while our rivers and waterways remain in pristine condition for future generations.

Loykrathong's lyrics
November full moon shines,
Loi Krathong, Loi Krathong,
and the water's high
in the river and local klong,

Loi Loi Krathong,
Loi Loi Krathong,
Loi Krathong is here and everybody's full of cheer,

We're together at the klong,
We're together at the klong,

Each one with this krathong,
As we push away we pray,
We can see a better day.

credit : http://www.thailand.com/travel/festival/festivals_loykratong.htm

This religious event of Uthai Thani is organised in the evening of Ok Phansa (end of Buddhist Lent) on the first day of the waning moon of the eleventh lunar month at Wat Sangkat Rattana Khiri. It is also in line with the Buddhist chronicles when the Lord Buddha returned to earth from heaven and gave Dharma. On the day of Tak Bat Thewo, 500 monks will walk down from the top of Khao Sakae Krang to receive offerings from residents and visitors to the ceremony, which creates an amazing spectacle and has made this tradition become well known nationwide.

Venue: Wat Sangkat Rattana Khiri, Uthai Thani Province

Information: Uthai Thani Municipality Office, Tel. +66 (0) 5651 2005

The date and time of the following festivals in some provinces may be changed as a result of the weather or the postponement by the organising host of the events. Please check the date and time again before travelling. Tourism Authority of Thailand provides tourist information centre at call centre 1672 or 02 250 5500.
:: Thong Pha Phum Fruit Festival
When: 1 – 31 July 2012
Where: Kanchanaburi

Exhibition of famous Thong Pha Poom agricultural, produce such as rambutan and durian, tasting and purchase of fruit directly from the farm, fruit competition, cooking of local desserts such as Karen Thong Yo, classical Karen play, Ram Tong and other local perforamnces; sale of delicious local rambutan, durian, pomelo, longan and mangosteen, tourist attraction exhibition and various shows perform by local people. Prized will be given to winners of competitions and certificates will be offered to fruit orchardists. This is an opportunity to enjoy a charming mountainous atmosphere.
:: International Wax Sculpture and Candle Procession Festival
When: 1 – 31 July 2012
Where: Ubon Ratchathani

The Candle Festival of Ubon Ratchathani province features a procession of ornately-carved traditional beeswax candles of various shapes and sizes. Buddhism, Buddhist traditions and beliefs are central forces that shape the local way of life and the customs and traditions related to this Buddhist festival have been carefully preserved by local communities.
:: Kaeng Hin Peung Rafting Festival
When: July 2012
Where: Prachinburi

Rafting on Gaeng Hin Pheung can be done as far as 2.5 km at 6 rapids. There are rafting competition, Pétanque competition, traditional dance performances, OTOP products booths, religious ceremony and candle wax parade, singing and musical performances.
:: Pattaya International Marathon
When: July 2012
Where: Pattaya

The Pattaya International Marathon is one of the most popular of the annual Thailand marathons. Pattaya International Marathon is one of the premier marathons attracting a field of contestants from all over the world. The event started in 1995 organized by Pattaya City, together with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and the Thailand Athletes Association under the Patronage of his Majesty the King. Each July, runners from a multitude of countries compete in three races: a full marathon (42 Km), a half marathon (21 Km) and a quarter marathon (10 Km).

The Phi Ta Khon festival is unique to the Dan Sai district in Loei Province and reflects the local Isan belief in ghosts and spirits. Held once a year, it is part of a grand merit-making festival known as the "Boon Luang" festival.

The origins of the Phi Ta Khon Festival can be found in the tale of Lord Buddha's last great incarnation before attaining Enlightenment. In Buddhist accounts, it is said that when Prince Vessandara, the Buddha's penultimate incarnation, returned to his city, it was such a joyous occasion that the village spirits came forth to join the welcoming parade. This very colourful and vibrant Phi Ta Khon procession is the central focus of the celebrations.

In a lively re-enactment of the tale, the young men of the community dress up as "spirits" wearing long trailing costumes made from colourful strips of cloth sewn together.

The hideous-looking Phi Ta Khon mask which is made of dried sticky rice husk is painted in bright red, green or other colours, and features the characteristic long pointed nose. This completes the transformation. The clanging sound of the square cowbells worn around the waist announces the presence of the spirits who wield phallic-shaped long-handled swords decorated with red paint. The good-natured, fun-loving spirits mingle among the crowd, teasing and amusing all who take part in the procession. Spectators and visitors are welcome to join in the fun.

There are two types of "spirits" featured in the Phi Ta Khon procession namely the "Phi Ta Khon Yai" — the supreme Phi Ta Khon, and the "Phi Ta Khon Lek", the ones that are commonly found. The making of the Phi Ta Khon Yai involves the performance of a sacred ritual to seek the blessings of the supreme powers before work on the Phi Ta Khon Yai masks can be initiated. It is also a task reserved exclusively for the descendants of families in which the tradition of making Phi Ta Khon masks has been practised for several generations. The Phi Ta Khon Yai is made of bamboo and is dressed in either male or female attire.

Contact information:

Accommodation in Dan Sai District
Phu Pha Nam Resort
Tel: 042 078078-9

Rang Yen Resort
Tel: 042 809511 – 3, 042 809514

Lay Leelawadee Resort
Tel: 042 801277

SB Resort
Tel: 042 891918

Na Thum Nam Taeng Homestay
Tel: 042 892339,891583, 042 086 8624812

Accommodation in Phu Ruea District
Phu Dara Resort
Tel: 042 801138-9

Phu Ruea Busba
Tel: 042 899330, 042 899229

Phu Ruea Resort
Tel: 042 899048, 042 899042

Baan Thongchai Resort
Tel: 042 899116

Contact information:
Tourism Authority of Thailand, Loei Office
Tel: +66 (0) 4281 2812
Fax: +66 (0) 4281 1480
E-mail: tatloei@tat.or.th

Phu Ruea Resort
Tel: 042 899048, 042 899042

Baan Thongchai Resort
Tel: 042 899116

Contact information:
Tourism Authority of Thailand, Loei Office
Tel: +66 (0) 4281 2812
Fax: +66 (0) 4281 1480
E-mail: tatloei@tat.or.th
IMPORTANT: It makes sense, that before travelling far to attend an event or festival that you double check dates and times first.

1.1 Historical Background ::
Visakha Puja Day marks the three important incidents in the life of Lord Buddha on the same day - the full moon of the sixth lunar month. The three significant separate event are :
	1. The Buddha's Birth - the Buddha was born into a royal warrior clan in the Lumbini Garden (in an area of Northern India known today as Nepal) In the morning of the Vesak full moon day, 80 years before the Buddhist Era. He was named Siddhattha five days after his birth.
2. "The Enlightenment of Buddha - While sitting under the Bodhi tree, he found his answer and attained the enlightenment at the age of 35 years at Uruvelasenanigama subdistrict, Magadha state, (nowadays, located in the area of Buddha Kaya, Bihar State, India), on Wednesday, the Vesak full moon day, the zodiac of the cock, forty five years before the Buddhist Era.
	3. The Nibbana - The Buddha passed away on Tuesday, the Vesak full moon day in the zodiac year of the small snake under the two Sal trees in the Sala Grove of the Mallas in Kusinara, the capital of the Malla state, (nowadays located in Kusinagara of Uttrarapradesa, India) at the age of eighty years (around 2547 years ago).
Visakha Puja (Vesak) means the worship of the Buddha on the full moon day of the sixth lunar month. It usually falls in May. In the case of a year with an extra eighth lunar month--Adhikamasa (there are 13 full moons in that year)-- the Visakha Puja Day falls on the full moon day of the seventh lunar month.
1.2 Significance ::
Visakha Puja Day is recognized as most important memorial day in Buddhism for the Lord Buddha who wandered from place to place teaching his discoveries to people who are accessible to the instruction, helping large a number of people achieving various levels of spiritual attainment. He sent his followers to spread Buddhism in capitals, cities and upcountry, until Buddhism was firmly established and widely spread. Visakha Puja day is also recognized by the UNESCO in 1999 as "World Heritage Day". Thailand where is the permanent location of the World Fellowship of Buddhists, is chosen to host celebrating event for the day.
1.3 An International Day of the United Nations ::
On December 13, 1999, the United Nations as the World Organization performing various activities accepted by the world wide population has unanimously resolved to declare the Visakha Puja Day (Vesak Day) as an International Day on December 15, 1999. This brings a lot of joy to the worldwide Buddhists.
1.4 Custom of Visakha Puja Day Rite ::
Every year when this important day comes around again, all Buddhists throughout the world gather together to perform the worship to recollect the wisdom, purity and compassion of the Buddha. Activities generally to be observed on the Visakha Puja Day are :
	'TUM BOON'   *;Going to temples for special observances, making merit, listening to Dharma preaching, giving some donations and join in the other Buddhist activities.
'RUB SIL'   *;Keeping the Five Precepts, including abstinence from alcoholic drinks and all kinds of immoral acts.
	'TUK BARD'   *;Offering food to the monks and novices (in the alm bowl).
Practice of renuciation: Observe the Eight Precepts, practice of meditation and mental displine, stay in the temple, wearing white robes, for a number of days.
'VIEN TIEN'  *;Attending the Candle Light Procession around the Uposatha Hall, in the evening of the Vesak full moon day.

read full story at http://www2.tat.or.th/visakhapuja/eng/about.html

The Songkran festival (Thai: สงกรานต์, Khmer: សង្រ្កាន្ត; from the Sanskrit word saṃkrānti,[1] or literally "astrological passage") is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year's Day from 13 to 15 April. It coincides with the New Year of many calendars of South and Southeast Asia.
The date of the festival was originally set by astrological calculation, but it is now fixed. If these days fall on a weekend, the missed days off are taken on the weekdays immediately following. If they fall in the middle of the week, many Thai take off from the previous Friday until the following Monday. Songkran falls in the hottest time of the year in Thailand, at the end of the dry season. Until 1888 the Thai New Year was the beginning of the year in Thailand; thereafter 1 April was used until 1940. 1 January is now the beginning of the year. The traditional Thai New Year has been a national holiday since then.
Songkran has traditionally been celebrated as the New Year for many centuries, and is believed to have been adapted from an Indian festival. It is now observed nationwide, even in the far south. However, the most famous Songkran celebrations are still in the northern city of Chiang Mai, where it continues for six days and even longer. It has also become a party for foreigners and an additional reason for many to visit Thailand for immersion in another culture.