Exploring Thailand’s Colorful Festivals During July

Thailand is known for its stunning beaches, spicy food, and warm hospitality. But there’s something more magical that happens throughout the year—its festivals. July, in particular, brings a unique blend of spirituality, tradition, and celebration. If you’re in Thailand during this time, expect candlelit processions, vibrant street parades, and a lot of local flavor.

The rainy season doesn’t dampen spirits here. In fact, it brings people together in beautiful ways.

The Start of Buddhist Lent

One of the most important events in July is Asalha Puja, also known as Dharma Day. It usually falls on the full moon of the eighth lunar month. The day marks the first sermon given by Buddha after his enlightenment.

Across the country, people gather in temples. They offer flowers, light candles, and listen to monks recite teachings. It’s a quiet, spiritual celebration filled with reflection.

The very next day begins Buddhist Lent, called Khao Phansa. This marks a three-month period when monks remain in their temples to meditate and study. Devotees offer robes, food, and candles to the monks in elaborate ceremonies. This is also a time when many young men become monks, even if just temporarily.

You can feel the deep respect for tradition in the air. It’s not loud or flashy, but powerful in its own way.

Ubon Ratchathani Candle Festival

If you're craving spectacle, head to Ubon Ratchathani in northeastern Thailand. Here, the Candle Festival brings art and religion together in one grand display.

Locals spend weeks sculpting giant candles—some as tall as buses. These aren't just wax sticks. They’re intricate artworks carved with scenes from Buddhist mythology and Thai folklore.

Once ready, the candles are paraded through town on floats. Dancers in traditional costumes move alongside, and music fills the streets. At night, the floats glow under the lights, creating a magical atmosphere.

It almost feels like something out of a movie. In fact, parts of The Beach, starring Leonardo DiCaprio, captured Thailand’s mystical vibe—though not this exact festival, the energy is very similar.

Rain and Rituals

July is also the height of the rainy season in many parts of Thailand. But the rain is seen as a

blessing, not a burden. It supports rice farming, which is the backbone of rural life.

During festivals, the rain adds to the ambiance. You might see people walking with umbrellas under candlelight or releasing flower offerings into streams. It’s deeply poetic.

In rural villages, smaller local ceremonies often go unnoticed by tourists. These involve family gatherings, home-cooked food, and honoring ancestors. If you ever get invited to one, say yes—it’s the heart of Thai culture.

A Time of Calm and Connection

Unlike the massive water fights of Songkran in April, the festivals in July are quieter. But they carry more emotion. They connect people to their beliefs, their community, and the changing seasons.

It’s also a time when many Thais travel back to their hometowns. Trains and buses fill up, and temples become the center of activity.

Even tourists feel the shift. Many slow down, visit temples, or simply watch a procession pass by. There’s a sense of being part of something meaningful.

A Cultural Window Worth Experiencing

Thailand in July isn’t just about rain and low-season deals. It’s a doorway into its spiritual side. Through flickering candlelight, the scent of incense, and the hum of prayers, you get to see a different rhythm of life.

So if you find yourself in Thailand this month, look beyond the beach. The festivals will show you a deeper story—one that stays with you long after your trip ends.