If you’re looking to escape the post-Christmas blues, flying to Thailand in January is a great option. The country’s climate is perfect for immersing yourself in its fascinating culture and heritage at this time of year. Take a sightseeing tour of Bangkok and soak up the sun on the beaches of Koh Samui. Travel to the country’s north to trek in the humid jungle without enduring significant storms. Phuket and the areas along the Andaman Sea are also ideal deck destinations during your visit to Thailand in January!
Events to Attend in Thailand in January
New Year’s Day
Every year in Thailand, many New Year parties are held in almost all provinces. But the best parties are in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Pattaya. Across the country, every city tries the other to host the grandest New Year’s Eve celebrations. New Year celebrations include moon festivals, beach festivals, street festivals, and also New Year celebrations at night bazaars across the country.
Festivals to Attend in Thailand in January
Chinese New Year Festival
Due to the large Chinese population residing in Thailand, Chinese New Year is a significant celebration in the country every year. It is also known as the Spring Festival, celebrated with splendor and fun for almost a week. Bangkok’s Chinatown fills with people in traditional red attire throughout the week; the streets are lined with lanterns and ornate temples. Dragon parades, firecrackers, and acrobatic dance performances bring the streets of the Thai capital to life. A wide range of Chinese and local delicacies will be sold during the celebrations.
The colorful and energetic parade will be joined by all the locals and finished by Her Highness, The Thai Princess. Aside from Bangkok, the Chinese New Year is also celebrated in other parts of the country, with celebrations in Phuket and Chiang Mai being prevalent. This festival is also when families get together to pass the time and wish each other good luck.
Bo Sang Umbrella & Sankampaeng Handicraft Festival
The Sankampaeng and Bo Sang Umbrella Craft Festival is a 3-day celebration held on the third weekend of January every year to recognize the efforts of local artisans. The festival, as the name implies, is a celebration of the famous handmade umbrellas made from saa or mulberry bark paper. Local artisans create stunning handmade designs and display them throughout the festival. Bo Sang is home to skilled artisans who create products ranging from great fans to lanterns and umbrellas. Great parasols are designed from mulberry bark paper and hand-painted in Bo Sang’s signature style.
In addition to saa, materials such as silk and cotton are also used. It’s best to visit the craft exhibitions in the afternoon in broad daylight to see the umbrellas in all their glory. They are illuminated, creating another incredible spectacle. Other events, such as an opening ceremony, a traditional market, cultural performances, a beauty pageant, dance performances, live music, and carnival games, add to the fun and joy of this unique festival.
