Thais are fun-loving people deeply rooted in their traditions. Array of festivals that are celebrated in this cultural land fascinates the visitors. Thai festivals are colourful and loaded with enthusiasm. Thais pray, observe rituals and have fun on their festivals. Some of these festivals are based on their reverence for royal family. Major festivals in Thailand are Chakri Day, King’s Birthday, Loy Krathong, Magha Puja, New Year Day, Queen’s Birthday, Songkran and Vesak. All these festivals are celebrated with enthusiasm in Pattaya.
Royal Festivals
Chakri Day is observed to express reverence to the kings of the Chakri dynasty. Birthday of the present King, respected and loved by the Thais, is celebrated in December as a grand event. Birthday of Queen Sirikit, regarded by the Thais as the mother, is celebrated in August as the Mother's Day. People of Pattaya express their regard for the Queen on this day.
Popular Festivals
Loy Krathong is the most beautiful among Thai festivals. Usually celebrated in November, it is a fascinating festival of lights. Thais float tiny banana leaf offerings (krathongs) on water bodies. Watching these tiny illuminated vessels is an impressive sight. Another popular festival is Songkran, traditional new year of Thailand. Most popular festival in the country, it is known for water fights.
Religious Festivals
Vesak is the holiest of Buddhist religious festivals marking the birth, enlightenment and death of Lord Buddha. Magha Puja commemorates an occasion when many of his disciples gathered to hear his sermon. Ceremonies are held at temples and processions are taken out.
 |
|||||||||
|
|||||||||