Buddhist Celebrations in Thailand

In July, the period traditionally known as Khao Phansa begins: Buddhist monks go to the temples and stay in retreat for three months; devotees on pilgrimage accompany and support them with offerings. Between late September and early October, the end of the Buddhist Lent is celebrated, concentrated on the day called Ok Phansa, joyfully celebrated by the population with many ceremonies and colorful processions thanks to the offerings of flowers and food.
To witness the most evocative celebrations, you can visit the Isan region in the northeast of the country; for example, in Nakhon Phanom from September 29 to October 4, it is customary to have a procession of illuminated boats along the banks of the Mekong, lit up by spectacular lanterns, candles, and incense sticks placed on board.
In Sakon Nakhon, the annual tradition is the organization of the wax sculpture festival: local artists shape the material by imposing the form of Buddhist temples, creating huge almost life-sized wax artifacts. Also in this case, to celebrate the event, a water parade takes place with typical boats.
A spectacular and very famous phenomenon is the appearance of fireballs that emerge from the Mekong river water. On October 4, many people gather in Nong Khai, attracted by this special event, which popular belief attributes to the work of the mythical Naga serpents.