Underwater Wedding Festival & Gulf Boat Race – 6 Must-Attend Festivals in Thailand in February

▲ 6 Must-Attend Festivals in Thailand in February. (Photo / Provided by Tourism Authority of Thailand.)

By Chen Hanyin / Compiled Report

Thailand boasts a unique traditional religious culture, centuries-old historical sites, and rich natural ecosystems. When it comes to shopping, Bangkok’s city center is packed with department stores, flea markets, and night markets that will keep you entertained for hours. For those planning a trip to Thailand in February, be sure to add the following festivals to your itinerary!

1. Makha Bucha Day
Date: February 11, 2017
Location: Across Thailand
This is an important Buddhist lunar festival and a national holiday, observed nationwide. On the full moon night, Thai people gather around temples to participate in candlelit processions to commemorate the day the Buddha delivered his first sermon to 1,250 enlightened disciples.

2. Trang Underwater Wedding Festival
Date: February 12–14, 2017
Location: Kantang District, Trang Province
The Trang Underwater Wedding Festival is held annually on February 14. Each year, hundreds of brides and grooms from many countries travel to southern Thailand to take part in this unique event, which includes traditional Thai wedding ceremonies, lavish parades, beach parties, and underwater marriage vow ceremonies at Koh Kradan.

3. 20th Gulf Boat Race
Date: February 15–19, 2017
Location: Phuket, Phang Nga, and Krabi
Join the fun of Thailand’s exciting boat races and four days of grand competition and festive parties. Over 50 yachts and more than 300 local and international crew members compete in this annual event. It's not just about the race—it’s also a great opportunity to showcase the true beauty of Phuket, Phang Nga, and Krabi to travelers.

4. Chiang Rai Flower Festival
Date: December 2016 – February 2017
Location: Dong and Kong Parks, Chiang Rai Province
During the Chiang Rai Flower Festival, visitors can enjoy flower exhibitions, the Miss Thinn Thai Ngarm beauty pageant, agricultural product fairs, and live music performances. There are also decorated plant and flower competitions and local product displays.

5. Dok Siew Flower Bloom Festival
Date: February 2017
Location: Puphak, Chiang Rai
This lovely botanical expo is held annually, showcasing the rare Chongko or Dok Siew flowers blooming in the mist. The event features magnificent art and cultural performances from northern hill tribes as well as thrilling sporting competitions.

6. King Narai Festival
Date: February 2017
Location: Lopburi Province
Held annually in Lopburi Province, this festival is named after King Narai, one of the great kings of the Ayutthaya Kingdom. About 350 years ago, King Narai made Lopburi the second capital of Thailand. The festival takes place at his former palace, Phra Narai Ratchanivet. Locals dress in traditional ancient costumes, displaying fruit carving and weaving crafts, demonstrating traditional sports using swords and sticks, selling traditional foods and snacks, and playing children’s games and performing dramas.