As the rains ease and the river waters swell, October marks the beginning of Thailand’s spectacular longboat racing season, one of the country’s most colourful and vibrant traditions. Rooted in both religious and cultural practices, longboat racing has become a highlight of the Thai calendar, drawing communities together to celebrate heritage, camaraderie and athletic skill.
These races are closely tied to the Buddhist Lent retreat. As the season ends, water levels on rivers are at their peak, providing the perfect conditions for competition. For centuries, boat races have been held to honour religious ceremonies, with brightly decorated vessels gliding across rivers to the sound of cheering crowds and ceremonial music. Today, while they remain deeply symbolic, the events have also grown into major tourism spectacles that attract visitors from around the world.
The races themselves are feats of teamwork and endurance. Crews can consist of up to 60 oarsmen, who row in unison to propel the long, narrow boats at breath-taking speed. Each vessel is elaborately painted, often in bright reds, golds and blues, with prows shaped into mythical creatures that reflect Thailand’s artistic heritage. The skill of synchronisation, combined with the intensity of competition, creates a thrilling spectacle for spectators on the riverbanks.
One of the season’s biggest celebrations takes place in Surat Thani with the Chak Phra and Longboat Festival, which will run this year from 4–12 October 2025. The event marks the symbolic return of the Buddha to earth after three months of Lent. The streets come alive with religious processions, temple fairs and cultural performances, culminating in longboat races on the Tapi River. The festival attracts large crowds of devotees and tourists alike, blending spiritual devotion with community festivity. As the Pattaya Mail reported recently, it is an occasion that “offers both locals and visitors a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in Thailand’s sacred traditions while enjoying an exhilarating spectacle on water.”
Other regions across the country also host races during the season. In Phichit, Nan and Phitsanulok, longboat competitions are accompanied by temple fairs and cultural markets, creating opportunities for visitors to enjoy regional food, music and crafts alongside the sporting action. These localised celebrations are as much about community as they are about competition, reinforcing bonds between villages and sustaining a centuries-old heritage.
For Thailand’s tourism industry, longboat racing season is a chance to showcase cultural depth alongside natural beauty. Travellers looking for authentic experiences will find a dynamic blend of history, religion and sport, set against the backdrop of Thailand’s waterways. The scale of participation, the artistry of the boats and the excitement of the races ensure that the tradition continues to thrive while adapting to modern tourism demands.
As October arrives, the longboat races once again highlight Thailand’s ability to unite the past and present, honouring traditions while welcoming visitors from across the globe. Whether experienced in Surat Thani, the central provinces or smaller local festivals, longboat season remains one of the most compelling windows into Thai culture and community life.
