Chiang Mai Festivals
Bo Sang Umbrella Fair
January 19-21 , Bo Sang, Sankamphaeng, Chiang Mai
Bo Sang, near Chiang Mai has become renowned for its exquisitely painted paper umbrellas, which are sought after by visitors from all over the world. An annual fair, held on the main street, celebrates the traditional art of umbrella making and painting, as well as features contests, exhibitions, sales of handicrafts, and a Miss Bo Sang beauty pageant. Come and see this festival for yourself. Advance reservations are necessary.
Chiang Mai Songkran Festival
April 11-15 , Tha Phae Gate and citywide, Chiang Mai
To really enjoy Songkran, the traditional Thai NewYear, to its fullest, one should travel to Chiang Mai where there is a variety of religious and fun-related activities conducted along with parades and a Miss Songkran beauty competition.
Mai Khan Pho Procession Festival
April 13-15 , Amphoe Chom Thong, Chiang Mai
The Pho tree (Ficus Religiosa) has a close association with the Buddhist religion. Mai Kham Pho, literally wooden supports for trees in temple courtyards, are used by devotees who believe that the supports will bring them longevity and prosperity. Mai Kham Pho are prepared on April 13 and 14, accompanied by cultural performances. On April 15, there is a procession of Mai Kham Pho to local temples.
Chiang Mai Food Festival
December 12-16 , Tha Phae Gate, Chiang Mai
Internationally renowned, the unique tastes of Thai food are further enhanced in this annual festival in Chiang Mai that focuses on northern fare. Fruit and vegetable carving, ancient Thai dessert making demonstrations and enchanting Lanna cultural performances are some of the activities that can be enjoyed.
Flower Festival
February 2-4 , Buak Hat Park, Chiang Mai
The North is noted for its abundance of flowering plains, especially temperate zone species, which burst into full bloom towards the end of the cool season. Spectacular beautiful floral floats are the memorable feature of this 3—day festival in Chiang Mai also known as the Rose of the North . There are floral displays, local handicraft sales. and enchanting beauty pageants.
Chiang Mai Winter Fair
December - January , Chiang Mai City Hall, Chiang Mai
This annual fair, held at Chiang Mai's city hall, features an assortment of local products and handicrafts for sale, an extravagant Miss Chiang Mai beauty Contest, and various forms of local entertainment. Everything comes alive especially at night.
Thawai Village Woodcarving Fair
January 29 - February , Thawai Village, Chiang Mai
This event highlights the talents of northern Thai woodcarving artisans and their work with demonstrations, contests and sales of woodcarving and other local handicrafts. There is also a street parade and various local cultural performances.
Northern Lantern Festival & Yipeng Loi Krathong
October 31 - November 1 , Chiang Mai Municipality Office and citywide, Chiang Mai
Creating a mesmerizing sight an unusual ritual of this northern capital’s Loi Krathong Festival is the launching of Lanna-style hot air balloons, which is considered by locals to rid them of their troubles. Traditional floats ( Krathongs) are also set adrift on the Ping River. In addition, there are various other forms of fun and a glamorous beauty pageant.
Intakin Festival
June , Chedi Luang Temple ,Chiang Mai
Held at the Chedi Luang Temple,it lasts a week and is used to ask for peace and for rain to fall during the right seasons.The temple holds the city piller which traditionally marks the center of a town.
