Living in Bangkok means being surrounded by a city that never sleeps where modernism and history coexist together. At VERSO International School, we value the rich culture all around us and are constantly hunting for ways to share the many events and celebrations of Bangkok with our community. What follows is a schedule of some of Bangkok's most interesting and culturally important events all year round. Whether you are a present member of the VERSO family or a potential parent looking at our school, these events provide something for everyone to enjoy and celebrate.
January
New Year's Eve and Day
Bangkok lights up with fireworks, festivities, and cultural events on New Year's Eve, marking the turn of a new year. Must-see spectacular countdown activities are abundant in iconic locations such as CentralWorld, Asiatique, and the Chao Phraya River.
Children’s Day (Wan Dek)
Celebrated on the second Saturday of January, Children's Day is a happy event honoring our young people. Families find access to several government buildings, including military sites and Government House. For children, this is a great day out with free activities, games, and giveaways.
February
Chinese New Year (Lunar New Year)
During Chinese New Year Chinatown, often known as Yaowarat, turns into a vibrant show. There are crimson lanterns, dragon dances, and pyrotechnics lining the streets. Families gather to celebrate with customary feasts, therefore creating a rich cultural event. For visitors just visiting Bangkok, it's a great chance to see the city's diverse legacy.
April
Songkran Festival (Thai New Year)
April marks the Thai New Year and the worldwide renowned Songkran Festival. From April 13 to 15, this water festival sees the whole city transformed into one large-scale water fight. Songkran event hotspots are located on Silom Road, Khao San Road, and dotted across several temples. At VERSO, we honor this custom by planning our own Songkran festivities so that students may take part in this special cultural holiday.
May
Royal Ploughing Ceremony
The rice-planting season starts in May with the Royal Ploughing Ceremony at Sanam Luang close to the Grand Palace. The King or another senior Royal Family member oversees this ancient Brahmin ceremony. It's a wonderful window into Thai agricultural customs.
Visakha Bucha Day
The most significant Buddhist holiday, Visakha Bucha Day honors Buddha birth, enlightenment, and death. Temples across Bangkok, such as Wat Pho and Wat Arun, hold candlelight processions and ceremonies. This is a time for introspection and religious practice, providing a calm counterpoint to the typical metropolitan buzz.
August
Queen’s Birthday and Mother’s Day
Celebrated twice, August 12th honors Mother's Day in Thailand and Her Majesty Queen Sirikit's birthday. Particularly around Ratchadamnoen Avenue and the Grand Palace, the city is festively lit with images of the Queen. Families spend the day together most of the time, and Bangkok hosts unique events and activities to celebrate the occasion.
October
Vegetarian Festival (Tesagan Gin Je)
Depending on the lunar calendar, this nine-day Taoist feast falls late September or October. Devotees of the Vegetarian Festival participate in several rites, wear white, refrain from eating meat, and the epicenters, Chinatown and Yaowarat Road, include a variety of vegetarian street cuisine and breathtaking parades.
November
Loy Krathong Festival
Usually in November, Loy Krathong—held on the full moon night of the 12th lunar month—is among Thailand's most exquisite celebrations. To release krathongs—decorative floats—into the water, people assemble around lakes, rivers, and canals, consequently signifying the letting go of grudges and misfortune. Bangkok's popular locations are Lumphini Park, Benjakitti Park, and the Chao Phraya River. At VERSO, we honor Loy Krathong by creating our own krathongs and instructing students in this important custom.
December
King Bhumibol’s Birthday and Father’s Day
Celebrated as Father's Day, December 5th is the birthday of late King Bhumibol Adulyadej. With celebrations, candlelight vigils, and decorations, the whole country honors the adored King. Bangkok's streets, especially around Ratchadamnoen Avenue and the Grand Palace, are particularly nicely lit up.
Christmas Celebrations
Though not a traditional Thai holiday, Christmas is observed in Bangkok with great fervor, particularly in retail centers and expatriate communities. Festive decorations and Christmas-themed activities abound in CentralWorld, Siam Paragon, and other large malls. With our own Christmas events, at VERSO we embrace the festive attitude and make sure our overseas students feel at home.
Year-Round Events and Festivals
Bangkok International Festival of Dance and Music
Celebrated yearly from September to October, this festival features world-class events spanning ballet and modern dance as well as classical music and opera. Events held at venues such as the Thailand Cultural Centre give residents as well as foreigners a rich cultural encounter.
Bangkok Art Biennale
The Bangkok Art Biennale turns the city into a large-scale art gallery with installations and events with artists from all across the world every two years. Participating are famous sites like Wat Arun, Wat Pho, and other art galleries, creating an artistic feast for both locals and tourists.
Thai Cultural Festivals
Throughout the year, Bangkok hosts numerous cultural festivals, including the Thai Silk Festival, the Candle Festival, and the Thailand Tourism Festival. These events celebrate the country’s rich heritage and offer a deeper understanding of Thai culture and traditions.
Celebrating Diversity at VERSO International School
At VERSO International School, we believe in celebrating diversity and embracing the vibrant cultural tapestry that makes Bangkok unique. Our school community is enriched by the city’s dynamic events and festivals, offering our students and families a wealth of experiences that go beyond the classroom.
We encourage our students to participate in these cultural festivities, fostering a sense of global citizenship and appreciation for different traditions. Whether you’re exploring the colorful parades of Chinese New Year, participating in the joyful water fights of Songkran, or releasing a krathong during Loy Krathong, there’s always something to celebrate in Bangkok.
As we look forward to another exciting year of events, we invite you to join us in experiencing the magic of Bangkok’s festivals. These celebrations not only provide entertainment but also teach valuable lessons about community, tradition, and the beauty of cultural diversity.
