The most frenetic festival in the country is that of Songkran, the Lunar New Year and all-around national water fight. Held from the 13th to 15th April each year…it’s a wet one! Traditionally it was celebrated by Buddha images being bathed with water and the showing of respect to monks and elders. From the sprinkling of water onto someone’s hands it has evolved into mass drenching for anyone who decides to venture outdoors. This has to be one of the friendliest, though wet, festivals anywhere and a great way to make new friends. In places like Chiang Mai, Sukhothai and Bangkok’s Khao San Road, Songkran lasts up to 9 days!t

The Rocket Festival (Bun Bang Fai) in the north eastern region is a literal explosion of village-crafted rockets. The rockets are fired into the sky in hopes to bring rain for the rice fields. This festival is celebrated mainly in Nong Khai, Ubon Ratchathani and Yasothon. Takes place according to the moon from mid-May to mid-June.

Thais celebrate Buddha’s birthday. Local Wats (Buddhist Temples) celebrate by holding candlelit processions. A tourist may take part in these parades and it can prove great fun.