Thai culture
- Lifestyle
Do we celebrate Christmas in Thailand?
Are you trading a white Christmas with a tropical one this year? Thailand is a majority Buddhist country, with about 95% of the population following the faith, so the local people don’t traditionally celebrate Christmas. However, the festive cheer is far from absent. In fact, Thais have found their own way of joining the seasonal celebrations, often with a unique…
- Thai Life
Celebrating Thailand’s Father’s Day
Thailand’s Father’s Day, celebrated on 5th December, is a heartfelt occasion that honours fatherhood and reflects the rich cultural traditions of the country. This day holds dual significance as it also commemorates the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej, whose birthday is marked by the occasion. The day is a unique opportunity for families and communities to come together and for expats…
- Thai Life
How Thai superstitions shape daily life today
Thai culture is full of fascinating traditions, and superstitions are a big part of it. If you’re walking past a spirit house or hearing someone talk about an unlucky number, you’ll notice these beliefs are everywhere. Superstitions may seem mystical, but they still influence daily life in Thailand. Understanding these beliefs can help you connect with Thai culture. Let’s explore…
- Thailand News
Sisaket holds vibrant cultural celebration for 242nd anniversary
Over 5,000 people from four ethnic groups—Suay, Lao, Yer, and Khmer—gathered to celebrate the 242nd anniversary of Sisaket province. The event, held yesterday, November 19, at the Kopura area within the King Rama IX Park in Mueang Sisaket district, was a homage to the province’s rich history and the ancestors who laid its foundations. The celebration, led by Anupong Suksamnit,…
- Thai Life
Social media and cancel culture in Thailand
Today, anyone with a platform can be ‘cancelled’ on social media, and in Thailand, that’s no different. Social media has become a powerful place where people connect, share views, and hold others accountable. But in Thailand, cancel culture isn’t just about calling out celebrity mistakes. It often ties into politics, societal expectations, and cultural identity. In this article, we will…
- Thai Life
How TikTok trends shape Thai pop culture
If you’ve noticed people in Thailand randomly breaking into TikTok dances or throwing out catchy new slang, you’re seeing TikTok’s influence in action. The platform is more than just a hub for addictive short videos, it’s reshaping Thailand’s pop culture, subtly influencing everything from fashion to the way people talk. Here’s how this digital phenomenon has woven itself into Thai…
- Thai Life
Why is Thailand no longer called Siam?
If you’ve been curious about why Thailand was once called Siam and what led to the name change, you’re not alone. This is a common question among anyone who noticed Siam referenced in historic sites, movies, and even in the names of places such as Bangkok’s Siam Square. Here’s a look at the history behind the name change, the reasons…
- Thailand News
Thai activist-turned-filmmaker takes home top award
Netiwit Chotiphatphaisal, best known for taking on the Thai establishment as a student activist, has swapped protest placards for a camera, earning him a prestigious film accolade. His co-produced documentary, The Last Breath of Sam Yan, claimed Best Documentary Film at the 2023 Suphannahong Awards, bringing attention to an ongoing battle over Bangkok’s cultural heritage. The documentary, directed by Prempapat…
- Thailand News
Phuket art festival: Thai dancers to take over Venice canals
In an unprecedented cultural spectacle, Thai dancers commandeered Venice’s iconic gondolas, leaving locals and tourists in awe as Phuket stakes its claim as the next global art hotspot. Thailand’s Office of Contemporary Art and Culture, under the Ministry of Culture, held a press conference in Venice, Italy, on Monday, September 2 to promote the Phuket Biennale 2025. Modelled after the…
- Thailand News
Pattaya’s art explosion: Colourful contest unveils future stars
Recognising the vital role of promoting cultural growth and conservation, the Pattaya City Cultural Council recently launched the highly anticipated Pattaya City Visual Arts Contest 2024. With the vibrant theme, Pattaya: A Way of Colours, this contest is designed to ignite the creative passions of young and emerging artists from all walks of life. Pattaya City Council President Banlue Kullavanijaya,…
- Thailand News
Ministry of Commerce turns local crafts into economic powerhouses
Tasked with transforming traditional crafts into a potent form of soft power, the Ministry of Commerce has charged the Sustainable Arts and Crafts Institute of Thailand (SACIT) with the mission of preserving the nation’s unique artistic heritage while making it appealing to both the younger generation and international audiences. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce Phumtham Wechayachai laid out…
- Thailand News
Royal barges restored for King’s 72nd birthday celebration
Restoration of 52 royal barges will be completed in time for a royal kathin ceremony in October, as part of celebrations for the King’s 72nd birthday on July 28, according to the Culture Ministry. Culture Minister Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol stated today that only minor details remain, with the work scheduled to finish by the end of this month. The Fine Arts…
- Lifestyle
Things you should not do to Thai person
Thailand, with its rich cultural tapestry and warm hospitality, attracts millions of visitors each year. However, navigating the social landscape requires more than just knowing the best tourist spots. Understanding what’s considered rude or inappropriate can make a significant difference in your interactions with locals. This article is gathering what you should never do to a Thai person. Things you…
- Lifestyle
Traditional Thai games: From history to modern playful traditions
Thai traditional games have been a cornerstone of Thai culture and traditions since ancient times. They date back to the Sukhothai Kingdom, where the earliest records of these games were found in the stone inscriptions of King Ramkhamhaeng. These games have not only provided entertainment but also fostered strong relationships between adults and young people, offering a unique blend of…
- Lifestyle
Spirit houses in Thai culture
In the bustling streets and serene countryside of Thailand, one might notice small, ornate structures standing proudly on pedestals, often adorned with flowers and offerings. These are spirit houses, integral to Thai culture and spirituality. They serve as abodes for protective spirits, believed to safeguard homes, businesses, and public spaces from harm. Spirit houses, known as “san phra phum” in…
- Lifestyle
Top 7 Things to never say to a Thai person
Navigating cultural nuances can be tricky, especially in a country as rich in tradition and etiquette as Thailand. Whether you’re planning a holiday or a business trip, understanding what not to say can make a world of difference. Thai people value respect and harmony, and certain phrases or behaviours can unintentionally offend. Things to never say to a Thai person…
- Food
How Pad Thai saved Thailand
Thailand’s national food, Pad Thai, is recognised around the world for its appeal to foodies everywhere. This delicious combination of sour, spicy, and sweet ingredients represents a major development in Thai politics and culture in addition to tasting amazing. It serves as a compelling example of the powerful role food can play in reflecting a nation’s history. Origins of Pad…
- Thailand News
Trendy Thai festival takes Shanghai by storm
Shanghai’s Super Brand Mall buzzed with excitement as the much-anticipated Thai Festival 2024, themed Trendy Thai, kicked off last Friday, May 10. During the opening ceremony, Prinat Apirat, Thailand’s Consul General in Shanghai stated that the festival serves as a bridge connecting rich cultures and peoples, fostering mutual understanding, appreciation, and an enduring friendship. The three-day extravaganza, which ran from May…
- Thailand News
Doctor Climax: Netflix’s bold new series explores taboo Thai culture
Netflix is no stranger to controversy, and their latest series, Doctor Climax, is poised to push boundaries once again. Following the exploration of Thai Buddhism’s commercialisation in The Believers, Netflix is diving into the secretive world of Thailand in the 1970s with a show that promises to reveal what was once unspoken. Directed by the dynamic duo Kongdej Jaturanrasmee, known…
- Travel
Travelling to Chiang Mai or Chiang Rai
Are you contemplating between exploring Chiang Mai or Chiang Rai? Both cities, strategically located in the core of northern Thailand, offer a diverse array of experiences, each possessing distinct charm. This article endeavors to elucidate the discrepancies between these two engaging locations, assisting you in making an educated decision for your forthcoming excursion. Chiang Mai, lauded as the provincial capital,…
- Thailand News
Shaping traditions: Sand sculptors carve out cultural magic in Pattaya
In celebration of Thai cultural heritage, Wat Prachum Khongkha in Bang Lamung District held a sand sculpture competition, showcasing creativity and craftsmanship. Organised into two categories, beauty and creativity, the grand sand pagoda construction competition aimed to honour the time-honoured tradition synonymous with the festive spirit of the Songkran Festival. Under the Beauty Category, participants showcased their prowess in sand…
- Thailand News
Hong Kong Songkran festival celebrations relocated
The water-splashing festivities of Thailand’s Songkran festival, hosted in Hong Kong’s Kowloon City, are set to make a splash in a new venue – a basketball court. This change came hot on the heels of last year’s arrests of three individuals for dousing police officers and reporters at the event. Kowloon City district officer Alice Choi Man-kwan disclosed that participants…
- Thailand News
Thai heritage extravaganza takes off in Pattaya
Pattaya burst into life this week with a dazzling celebration of Thai cultural richness, as Mayor Poramet Ngampichet inaugurated the Thai Heritage Conservation Project: Preserving, Promoting, and Safeguarding Thai Identity in honour of HRH Princess Sirindhorn’s 69th birthday. The beachfront of central Pattaya became the stage for a captivating showcase of Thailand’s cultural tapestry. The event was a magnificent exposition…
- Thailand News
Nan Province: Next UNESCO Cultural World Heritage site?
Culture Minister Sermsak Pongpanich announced the Cabinet’s approval of the Culture Ministry’s proposal to nominate Nan as a UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Site. This exciting development comprises two key subprojects geared towards enhancing public awareness, revealed the minister yesterday, March 25. Nan Province’s inclusion in the nomination list stems from its vibrant cultural heritage, boasting meticulously preserved pre-historic archaeological findings,…
- Thailand News
Thailand Tourism Festival held in Bangkok from March 28
The 42nd Thailand Tourism Festival will be held from March 28 to April 1 at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre (QSNCC) in Bangkok. Organised by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), this year’s festival promises a spectacle of unparalleled experiences, blending tradition with innovation and sustainability. TAT Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool stated that the Thailand Tourism Festival 2024 will incorporate…
- Thailand News
‘Wai Khru’ ceremony proposed as cultural heritage
To celebrate Thailand’s rich cultural heritage, Education Minister Permpoon Chidchob today announced plans to propose the inclusion of the Wai Khru ceremony in UNESCO’s list of intangible cultural heritage. Taking approximately six months to meticulously craft the proposal, the ministry aims to showcase the profound tradition of students expressing gratitude and reverence towards their teachers, a practice deeply rooted in…
- Thailand News
Over a million Buddhists gather to venerate Buddha’s relics in Bangkok
Sanam Luang in Bangkok recently played host to over 1 million Buddhists who congregated to venerate the relics of the Lord Buddha and his chief disciples, Sariputra and Moggallana. The Ministry of Culture reported this mass gathering took place between February 24 and March 3. The Culture Minister, Sermsak Pongpanich, revealed that roughly 100,000 Buddhists visited each day during the…
- Thailand News
Princess Sirindhorn’s stunning photography exhibition at BACC
The Bangkok Art and Cultural Centre currently holds an exhibition by Thailand’s royal photographer, HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn. Those familiar with the photographs taken by the late King Rama IX will recognise the shared passion for photography and the arts of the princess and her late father. The Thai public has grown accustomed to seeing at least one camera…
- Thailand News
Thailand’s cultural marvel: Khon dance meets history in Ayutthaya
In a fusion of ancient artistry and historical grandeur, the Khon masked dance will weave its enchanting tales against the backdrop of Ayutthaya next month. This cultural extravaganza promises to be a visual feast, celebrating Thailand’s vibrant legacy in a way never seen before. Part of the esteemed Ayutthaya Sundown 2024 programme by the Ministry of Culture, this Khon performance…
- Thailand News
Thailand heritage meets modern flair: Kaomai Museums blend past and present
In Chiang Mai, the Kaomai Museums, a project conceived by PAVA Architects, stands as a testament to the fusion of Thailand’s rich architectural and cultural heritage with modern functionality. The museums offer a captivating narrative that bridges the past and the present. The restoration process, meticulously executed, breathed new life into a cluster of colonial-era warehouses. These historical structures, once…
