Thailand’s visa fee exemption ends in August only—make the most of your summer holidays with this lazy guide to July & August festivals!

▲ Ubon International Candle Sculpture and Parade Festival. (Photo / from theUbon Ratchathani Candle FestivalFacebook page, the same below.)

Travel Center / Comprehensive Report

With the scorching summer here, it’s time to escape to the islands for some relaxation. The Thai government introduced visa fee exemptions for tourists last December, extending the offer all the way to August 31. This has significantly boosted travel from Taiwan to Thailand. If you’re looking to squeeze in a relaxing Southeast Asian getaway before the visa fee waiver ends, check out these six major Thai festivals happening in July and August.

1. Ubon International Candle Sculpture and Parade Festival
Date: July 8–9, 2017
Location: Ubon Ratchathani Province

▲ Artists create vivid and lifelike Buddha statues with their skilled hands.

Among Thai Buddhist festivals, besides Vesak Day, the Ubon International Candle Festival and candle parade is one of the grandest. Artisans and artists across the country showcase their exquisite craftsmanship and creativity by carving intricate and stunning Buddha-themed sculptures. The event draws throngs of devotees every year and is one of Thailand’s top domestic celebrations.

2. Kathu Culture Street Festival
Date: July 9–11, 2017
Location: Kathu District, Phuket

The Kathu Culture Street Festival showcases Phuket’s oldest and liveliest cultural heritage activities and performances, including centuries-old key economic activities like tin mining. During the festival, there will be light and sound shows, exhibitions, as well as local handicrafts and food for visitors to explore.

3. 2017 Pattaya Marathon
Date: July 16, 2017
Location: Pattaya Beach, Chonburi Province

The 2017 Pattaya Marathon will be held on July 19. It’s an international-level event, and its picturesque route attracts numerous world-class runners and locals every year. The race includes a variety of categories: mini marathon (10.55 km), half marathon (21.1 km), and full marathon (42.195 km).

4. 2017 Cape Panwa Hotel Phuket Raceweek
Date: July 19–23, 2017
Location: Cape Panwa Hotel, Phuket

▲ Phuket Yacht Week is Asia’s most thrilling yachting event. (Photo / from thephuketraceweekofficial website)

The Cape Panwa Hotel Phuket Raceweek is Asia’s most exciting yachting competition. For four days, world-class yacht races will take place around Phuket, combined with four consecutive nights of beach parties hosted by the five-star Cape Panwa Hotel. This event not only promotes sailing activities around Phuket but also showcases the island’s beauty to visitors.

5. Lad Chado Candle Floating Festival
Date: July 2017
Location: Ayutthaya Province

The Lad Chado Candle Floating Festival is held annually along the Lad Chado Canal. Visitors can experience the precious riverside lifestyle while enjoying beautifully decorated candle lantern parades. There’s also a beauty pageant in Ban Suanarin Canal Village, a photography exhibition showcasing local life in Lad Chado, and nostalgic events recreating the ambiance of traditional floating markets.

6. Rafting in Pai River
Time: July to December 2017
Location: Mae Hong Son

▲Exciting whitewater rafting activities. (Photo / from the "Thai Adventure Rafting" Facebook page)

Those looking for a cool escape this summer should head to Mae Hong Son for an adventure. With pristine landscapes preserving beautiful natural scenery, rafting difficulty levels range from Grade 3 to Grade 5 along 50 kilometers of fast-flowing rivers. Visitors can spend the entire weekend enjoying the natural beauty and the thrill of rafting.