• E N R O U T E / / F E S T I V A L G U I D E
© DIRCTR / ADOBESTOCK by Buddhist artisans for the festival . Once complete , the candle sculptures are placed on floats and displayed in a parade , accompanied by dancers and musicians . It takes place in Ubon Ratchatani , 600 kilometres north-east of Bangkok .
Sak Yant Festival ( March 2017 )
Hundreds of Thais gather at the famous Wat Bang Phra temple to receive tattoos from its monks . The tattoos are not just body decorations , but are considered as amulets for protection against evil spirits , bad luck and bodily harm ( Angelina Jolie even got one ). Those with tattoos often go into a trance and act out the characteristic of the sacred animals that have been inked onto their skin . The festival takes place in Nakhon Chai Si , 60 kilometres west of Bangkok .
Ubon Ratchatani Candle Festival ( July 2017 )
“ Candle ” is a bit misleading : it ’ s more accurately described as giant pieces of wax that are carved , sculpted and moulded into various religious symbols
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Vegetarian Festival ( October 2017 )
Yes , people do follow purification rites and eat only vegetarian food , but this is no bunny-hugger get-together . It ’ s one of the world ’ s most macabre festivals , with devotees going into trances and putting knives , skewers and all sorts of other paraphernalia through their cheeks , amongst other bizarre acts of self-mutilation . The raucous celebrations take place annually in Phuket .
Poi San Long ( April 2017 ) Young monk novice initiates wear colourful , elaborate costumes and are paraded around on the backs of villagers , as they aren ’ t allowed to touch the ground for several days . Traditionally a Burmese Shan festival , this takes place in Mae Hong Son in the remote northwest .
Songkran ( April 2017 ) This is the nationwide Thai New Year celebration , which is basically the world ’ s largest water fight . People take to the streets throughout the country with squirt guns , hoses and cannons to let their hair down , give thanks and cool off during the hot season .
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