New Year's Day
January
Celebrations traditionally begin with merit-making in the mornings, when Buddhists take gifts of flowers, incense or donations to the temples, followed by parties and entertainment around Sanam Luang for the rest of the day.

Bangkok Fringe Festival
January
Innovative theatre productions.
Patravadi Theatre
Website: www.patravaditheatre.com

Makha Puja
February/March
Buddhist Holy day featuring various day and night candlelit ceremonies.
Temples around the city

International Kite Festival
March/April
Kite fighting and demonstrations.
Sanam Luang

International Bangkok Motor Show
March/April
Bangkok International Trade & Exhibition Centre
Website: www.grandprixgroup.com

Bangkok International Book Fair
March/April
Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre
Website: www.bangkokibf.com

Songkran (Thai New Year)
April
Religious ceremonies and public festivities involving lots of water.
Throughout the city

Royal Ploughing Ceremony
May
Celebration of the start of the rice-growing season.
Sanam Luang

Asarnha Puja Day/Khao Phansa Day
July
Commemorates Buddha's first sermon and the beginning of Buddhist Lent.
Temples throughout the city

Queen's Birthday Celebrations
August
Public holiday with display of lights decorating public buildings.
Throughout the city

Bangkok International Film Festival
September
Throughout the city
Website: www.bangkokfilm.org

Yaowarat Food Festival
September/October
Taste and watch the preparation of Chinese, Thai, international and vegetarian food.
Chinatown

Chulalongkorn Day
October
Public holiday in memory of Rama V, best seen at the Equestrian Statue in the Royal Plaza.

Bangkok Marathon
November
Sanam Chai
Website: www.thailandmarathon.org

King's Birthday Celebrations
December
Public holiday with display of lights decorating public buildings.
Throughout the city