Festivals and Key Events in Thailand - November 2025

November in Thailand is a month dedicated to honoring the country’s ancient traditions, like Loi Kratong, and embracing regional festivals, including the Surin Elephant Festival. It’s also a time for dazzling fireworks in Pattaya, the iconic Bangkok Marathon, Gallery Night, and much more.

Loi Kratong 2025 in Thailand

Loi Kratong is one of Thailand’s most beautiful traditional events. It’s truly a unique moment that should be witnessed and experienced. In this simple yet profound ritual, baskets made from banana leaves, adorned with candles and flowers, are gently placed on the water to honor the goddess of water and dispel misfortunes.

Everything you need to know about Thailand’s traditional Loi Kratong festival, which will take place on Wednesday, 5 November 2025:

Celebrate Loy Krathong Festival 2025 in Thailand: Top activities, locations, and traditions

Every year, on the night of the full moon of the 12th lunar month, one of Thailand’s most enchanting festivals, Loy Krathong or Festival of Lights, takes place in 2025. Here’s all the information you need to make sure you don’t miss anything.

Other traditional Thai festivals in November

Yipeng 2025 Chiang Mai Light Festival

The release of khomloy sky lanterns (โคมลอย) is truly magical and not to be missed. However, they are now banned throughout Chiang Mai and its 8 districts for air safety reasons. To do them, you need to go to the east of the city, to Sankamphaeng, Mae On or Doi Saket. There are agencies that organise tours… Note that this festival is normally free!

More info about the festival

Where to Experience the Real Yi Peng in Chiang Mai? The Only Free Lantern Release

Good news for travelers in Chiang Mai: the Yi Peng Festival in Doi Saket is the only event where visitors can release lanterns for free.

Surin Elephant Festival 2025

The Surin Elephant Festival in Thailand celebrates elephant culture with parades, skill demonstrations and cultural shows, and attracts travellers from all over the world to discover the local culture.

More info about the festival

Surin Elephant Festival 2025 — History, Debate & Travel Guide

Every year, Surin in northeastern Thailand celebrates its deep bond with elephants through colorful parades and lively performances. Here’s everything you need to know about this iconic event.

The Phimai Festival and Boat Races

The Phimai Festival and the Boat Race is a major event featuring exciting attractions. Every day, sound and light shows come to life, while boat races offer fiery competition. In addition, a reconstructed antique market offers a variety of local produce, arts and crafts, and farm produce, allowing visitors to discover the richness of the region.

Lopburi Monkey Banquet 2025

The town of Lopburi, north of Bangkok, is famous for its temples and especially for the monkey clans that occupy the historic town centre. Every year, the town honours its guests with a festival featuring large banquets. A very special occasion, well worth the diversions.

More info about the festival

November in Thailand: Lopburi Monkey Buffet Festival 2025

Every year, on the last weekend in November, Lopburi celebrates a festival in honour of the monkeys. The programme is simple: a giant buffet of fruit and vegetables in the ruins of ancient Khmer temples.

River Kwai Bridge Week and Red Cross Fair 2025

Return of the River Kwai Bridge Festival with, as every year, illuminations and shows honouring the history (true and fictional) of the famous bridge in the town of Kanchanaburi.

More info about the festival

River Kwai Bridge Festival 2025: History, Culture & Light Show

Discover the River Kwai Bridge Festival in Kanchanaburi — a cultural and historical celebration featuring a stunning light and sound show and lively local events.

November in Music in Thailand

Chiang Rai Jazz Festival 2025 – “Analog Pulse”

The Chiang Rai Jazz Festival returns on November 8–9, 2025, with its second edition themed “Analog Pulse,” celebrating music, art, and culture in a warm and authentic atmosphere. Held at the iconic Rerng-Poy Warehouse — a venue known for its festive spirit — the event will spotlight emerging jazz talents from across Thailand, with a main stage for contemporary artists and a Showcase Stage dedicated to student musicians from Northern universities.
New this year: a Vinyl DJ Stage for analog sound enthusiasts, and an interactive Art Zone in collaboration with Art Bridge Chiang Rai, offering workshops and live demonstrations for all ages.

Bob Sinclar Ignites Phuket: The Beach Will Dance!

Legendary French DJ Bob Sinclar will perform for the first time in Phuket at Café del Mar on November 28, 2025. This exclusive show promises a sun-drenched electro vibe, blending house, Latin pop, and iconic hits like Love Generation and Sound of Freedom. It’s set to be a highlight of the musical season, driven by the unstoppable energy of the dancefloor master.

Mycelium Festival

The Mycelium Music and Art Festival 2025, taking place from November 14 to 16 in Chiang Dao, Chiang Mai, promises a fully immersive experience blending music and art. Expect an exceptional fusion of local and international musical styles, featuring renowned artists for an unforgettable celebration of creativity and connection.

Rolling Loud Thailand 2025

The Rolling Loud festival is back with a bang, featuring hip-hop, rap and more. Big line-up!

Festivals and cultural events in November

Vijit Chao Phraya 2025

4th Edition of the Chao Phraya River Festival: A Celebration of Light and Heritage. Now in its fourth edition, this festival shines a spotlight on the majestic Chao Phraya River. As in previous years, dazzling illuminations and live performances will light up iconic riverside landmarks, celebrating both the grandeur of the river and the rich cultural heritage that surrounds it. Audiences can expect a program every bit as vibrant and captivating as the 2024 edition.

Galleries’ Nights 2025

Over the years, Gallery Night has become a must-attend event for art lovers. As in previous editions, this cultural initiative by the French Embassy offers two evenings of discovery, where visitors can wander from gallery to gallery along a rich and inspiring route. Now in its 11th edition, the event expands beyond Bangkok to include Chiang Mai — marking a new chapter in its celebration of contemporary art.
For more details, visit the Sawasdee France website.

Nasatta Light Festival Winter Illumination 2025

The enchanting illuminations at Nasatta Park return this November and will continue through May 3, 2026. No need to rush — visitors have plenty of time to enjoy this romantic and atmospheric light experience, perfect for couples, families, and art lovers alike.

Pattaya International Fireworks Festival 2025

On November 28 and 29, Pattaya Beach will once again light up the sky with the return of the Pattaya International Fireworks Festival. This spectacular two-day event promises breathtaking pyrotechnic displays and unforgettable moments for visitors of all ages — a true highlight of the festive season in Chon Buri.

Everything you need to know about the Pattaya Fireworks Festival 2025

Pattaya International Fireworks Festival 2025

At the end of November, Pattaya hosts the International Fireworks Festival for two days. Here’s all the practical information you need to make sure you don’t miss a thing.

Sports events in November in Thailand

Bangkok Marathon 2025

The Bangkok Marathon is one of Thailand’s most iconic running events. Held annually, it draws participants from around the globe to race through the vibrant streets of the Thai capital. Runners can choose from a range of distances — from the full marathon to shorter courses — making it accessible to all fitness levels.

Pattaya International Bikini Beach Race

The iconic Bikini Run returns on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at 5 PM in Central Pattaya. This 5-kilometer beachside race blends fitness, fashion, and music in a vibrant celebration. Runners will dash along the sandy stretch of Pattaya Beach, starting and finishing in front of Central Pattaya mall — with the event culminating in a lively concert to keep the energy flowing.

Samui Trail

The Samui Trail returns on November 8–9, 2025, offering runners a breathtaking course through misty mountains, tropical forests, and sea-view hills on Koh Samui. Starting at Phawanaphothikhun College in Na Mueang, this unique trail run promises a deep immersion into the lush landscapes of Southern Thailand — perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Pangsida Camp Trail

On November 16, 2025, the Pang Sida Camp Trail invites runners to immerse themselves in the lush wilderness of Pang Sida National Park — known as the “Butterfly City of the Eastern Forest.” This scenic trail winds through rich biodiversity and peaceful landscapes, offering four race distances to suit all levels: 6K, 15K, 25K, and 55K.

Doi Inthanon - Thailand by UTMB

Thailand by UTMB® returns with a breathtaking series of races on the slopes of Doi Inthanon, the highest peak in Thailand. Taking place on November 30 and December 6, 2025, the event offers runners an immersive journey through tropical forests and mountainous terrain ranging from 400 to 2,100 meters in elevation. Participants will enjoy spectacular views of terraced rice fields and local farms, while also encountering the rich cultural heritage of the Hmong, Pga-Gan-Yaw, and Karenic communities.

Pattaya Street Basketball 3x3

From November 28 to 30, 2025, Terminal 21 Pattaya will host the Pattaya Street Basketball 3x3 tournament — an outdoor event featuring the dynamic 3-on-3 format. Teams of three players will compete on custom-built street courts, with categories ranging from amateur to competitive divisions, making it accessible to players of all skill levels.

Bitcoin Thailand Half Marathon 2025

The Bitcoin Thailand Half Marathon will take place on November 1–2, 2025, in Chiang Mai. This unique event blends athletic challenge with tech-forward spirit, offering multiple race formats and awarding participants with Bitcoin Metals — a nod to the growing fusion of sport and digital innovation.

Summary of November events in Thailand

FAQ – Festivals and Events in Thailand, November 2025

When is the Loi Kratong Festival celebrated in Thailand in 2025?

Loi Kratong will take place on Wednesday, November 5, 2025. It’s one of Thailand’s most iconic festivals, where people release floating baskets on rivers to pay respect to the goddess of water.

Where can I see the Yi Peng Lantern Festival in 2025?

The Yi Peng Festival will be held from November 4 to 6, 2025, mainly in Chiang Mai. Lantern releases are now restricted to specific zones like Sankamphaeng, Mae On, and Doi Saket due to air safety regulations.

What are the main festivals in Thailand in November 2025?

Major November events include Loi Kratong, Surin Elephant Festival, Phimai Boat Races, Pattaya Fireworks Festival, and Vijit Chao Phraya in Bangkok. There are also big music events like Rolling Loud Thailand, Mycelium Festival, and the Chiang Rai Jazz Festival.

What music festivals take place in Thailand in November 2025?

Music lovers can enjoy several events: Rolling Loud Thailand (Nov 14–16) in Pattaya, Chiang Rai Jazz Festival (Nov 8–9), Mycelium Festival (Nov 14–16) in Chiang Dao, and Bob Sinclar Live in Phuket (Nov 28).

What sports events are happening in Thailand in November 2025?

The month features major races such as the Bangkok Marathon (Nov 16), Samui Trail (Nov 8–9), Bitcoin Half Marathon (Nov 1–2), and the Doi Inthanon Thailand by UTMB (Nov 30–Dec 6).

Where can I see elephants in Thailand in November?

Head to the Surin Elephant Festival from November 15 to 26, 2025, at Si Narong Stadium. It’s Thailand’s most famous elephant celebration, featuring parades, shows, and traditional performances.

What are the best cultural events in Thailand this November?

For cultural enthusiasts, don’t miss Vijit Chao Phraya, Galleries’ Nights, River Kwai Bridge Week, and the Nasatta Light Festival in Ratchaburi. Each offers a unique glimpse into Thai art, history, and traditions.

Is November a good month to visit Thailand?

Yes, November marks the start of the cool season, with pleasant temperatures and fewer rains. It’s one of the best months to travel, especially for those interested in cultural events and outdoor activities.

How can I attend the Pattaya International Fireworks Festival 2025?

The festival will take place on November 28–29, 2025, along Pattaya Beach. The event is free to attend, and it’s best to arrive early to find a good viewing spot along the shoreline.

What is the most unique festival in November 2025?

The Lopburi Monkey Banquet on November 30, 2025, is one of Thailand’s most unusual events. Thousands of monkeys are offered fruits and treats in front of Phra Prang Sam Yot, creating a fun and photogenic spectacle.

For all other events in Thailand all year round

Explore Thai Culture and Traditions: Events, Festivals, Gastronomy, and Nature

The Thailand culture and traditions section includes general information on a country with multiple cultural traits, such as art, music, dance, literature, religion, festivals, and cuisine, reflecting its long history and diverse ethnic groups.