Did you hear? It’s official. Thailand has declared 2025 as the Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year so travelers can experience the country like never before. Year-round, festivals and events are a huge part of what draws travelers to the destination and this year features major international events, cultural and religious festivals, sporting competitions, adventure activities and much more.
The biggest festival you won’t want to miss? It’s the Songkran Festival which countless travelers visit Thailand for each year. This festival is famous for its epic and exhilarating water fights plus, you can get exclusive deals with Grand Songkran and Grand Privileges.
If you’re not making it to Thailand in April, that’s okay! There’s an incredibly rich festival scene outside of Songkran that offers once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Now, let’s explore the festivals you truly can’t miss in Thailand…
Songkran Festival 2025 (April 13-15)
Every year, on April 13th, the Songkran Festival takes place and is extended into the 14th and 15th of the month. Not only do locals celebrate each and every year, but it’s the most popular festival event for travelers visiting Thailand.
Experience the Thai New Year in Ayutthaya, a city steeped in history and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Songkran is celebrated with traditional water fights, lively parades, and rituals honoring elders and ancestors. Ayutthaya offers a unique blend of cultural celebration and historical charm, where you can explore ancient ruins and immerse yourself in local traditions. If you’re looking to experience that first-hand, you’ll want to head to one of the major cities like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket or Pattaya.
During this time, temple rituals also take place to welcome in the new year. At these temples, locals pour water over Buddha statues for blessings throughout the year. In addition to the famous water fights and rituals there’s traditional parades, beauty pageants and folk performances for you to enjoy.
If you’re thinking of traveling to Thailand to celebrate, there are four top destinations we recommend you visit to really experience fully. Bangkok hosts the famous Songkran festival celebration, where you can also visit Wat Mahathat in Ayutthaya, the oldest temple in Ayutthaya, built in 1374 - a renowned UNESCO World Heritage site. Or, you might want to head to Phuket & Pattaya for stunning beachfront celebrations that feature vibrant nightlife and live music you won’t want to miss.
This year, you can access travel deals and privileges when you visit Thailand during the Songkran Festival. These deals include discounts on hotels, restaurants, attractions and shopping so that you can get an exclusive, special travel experience designed for you. These deals are designed only for people visiting during Songkran.
For exclusive Songkran deals, visit the Grand Songkran & Grand Privileges, between April 1-30, 2025.
Even More Must-Experience Festivals in ThailandIf you can’t make it to the Songkran Festival this year, you can raincheck and experience one of Thailand’s other famous festivals.
In November, the Loy Krathong & Yi Peng is Thailand’s Festival of Lights. This celebration is also one of the more popular ones for travelers to experience each and every year. During the festival, thousands of lanterns light up the sky and krathongs float on rivers for a spectacular sight, and a beautiful moment. Best places to visit and experience Loy Krathong & Yi Peng? Chiang Mai, Sukhothai or Bangkok.
Phi Ta Khon, or the Ghost Festival, in June is perfect if you like a little bit of spookiness in your life. Here, you’ll spot ghost masks, parades and spiritual ceremonies as part of the Bun Luang tradition. We recommend going to Dan Sai or Loei Province for the best, fullest experience.
Whether you’re vegetarian or not, the Vegetarian Festival in October is a must-do if you’re a foodie. This Thai-Chinese festival is known for spiritual rituals and plant-based cuisine that allows you to experience it all. Best places to visit for this festival are Phuket and Bangkok.
In May, the Rocket Festival takes place. If you visit during this festival, you’ll witness locals launching rockets which are said to bring rain and prosperity down. Interested? So are we, and it’s recommended to visit Yasothon Province for the best experience possible.Looking to ring in the new year in a different way? Head to Thailand for the Amazing Thailand Countdown. This is Thailand’s biggest New Year’s Eve event which features outstanding fireworks, concerts and various cultural performances. If you’re looking to be a part of something like this for New Year’s Eve, head to Bangkok, Phuket, Pattaya or Chiang Mai.
To wrap things up, remember, there is so much more to Thailand than just the stunning beaches. You can do a mix of activities! Plus, by aligning with one of the famous festivals like Songkran, Loy Krathong & Yi Peng, or the others you can take your trip to a whole other level.
Ready to explore Thailand Festivals & Trips?