Thailand: Seven iconic festivals to seduce

Thailand offers more than a hundred festivals throughout the year, celebrated in every region of the country. This festive excitement, according to Mr. Suriya Sitthichai, Director of the National Tourist Office of Thailand in France, is due to the kingdom’s unique history:

« Thailand has never known war. This heritage of peace has allowed the festive spirit to persist and flourish, giving rise to a unique diversity of celebrations. »

At IFTM Top Resa 2025 (Paris, September 23-25), Ms. Chiravadee Khunsub, Deputy Governor for Europe, America, the Middle East, and Africa at the TAT, spoke to us about the promotion of seven iconic festivals for the French and European markets under the concept « Soft Power Festival: Local to Global. »

The objective, she explains, is clear: « to promote a distinctive cultural offering that particularly appeals to the French market, renowned for its interest in art, traditions, and authentic experiences. »

The three highlights highlighted:
– The Illuminated Boat Procession Festival – Nakhon Phanom (September 27 – October 8, 2025).

Majestic illuminated boats parade on the Mekong River to mark the end of Buddhist Lent.

A spectacular tradition from the Northeast, imbued with fervor and artisanal creativity.

– The Christmas Star Parade – Sakon Nakhon (December 23–25, 2025)

One of the country’s largest Christian communities, based in the village of Tha Rae, brings this colorful festival to life.

Processions, parades, and, above all, lavish light displays transform not only Sakon Nakhon but also the entire northeast region of Thailand, where the Christmas spirit unfolds in a unique way in Southeast Asia.

-The Candle Festival – Ubon Ratchathani (July 9–13, 2026)

This event, held to coincide with a Buddhist monastic retreat, is one of the most impressive in the country.

Local residents carve immense wax candles decorated with intricate bas-reliefs depicting Buddhist scenes and traditional motifs.

These monumental works, carried in procession through the city, are accompanied by dancing, music, and community activities.

This festival illustrates the spirit of cooperation and collective creativity of the local population.

And don’t forget four other unmissable events:

– Grand Loy Krathong – Sukhothai (October 27 – November 5, 2025): Lantern and krathong releases, sound and light shows, and a beauty pageant in a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

– Vijit Chao Phraya – Bangkok (November 1 – December 15, 2025): Multimedia festival and projections on the iconic buildings along the riverbanks.

– Amazing Thailand Countdown – Chiang Mai (December 28, 2025 – January 1, 2026): A festive New Year’s Eve celebration at Royal Park Rajapruek with concerts by renowned artists.

– And the inevitable Maha Songkran World Water Festival – Bangkok (April 13–15, 2026): The famous water festival, combining traditional rituals and major modern events. A must-see in the country.

An opportunity for the low season

The unique feature of many of these events is that they take place during the low season, when flight and accommodation prices are more attractive for French customers.

To support its professional partners, the National Tourism Organization of Thailand (NTO) is developing specific packages around the festivals and also offering dedicated training to agencies and tour operators to better market these offerings.

A Festive Identity Highlighted

Beyond the event aspect, these festivals are a powerful soft power tool: they reflect the Thai identity, combining art, spirituality, and conviviality.

For the French market, they represent opportunities to offer different stays