NAKHON PHANOM, Oct 6 Tourists from other parts of Thailand and foreigners alike gathered in Nakhon Phanom province bordering Laos to view the annual illuminated boat procession held the end of Buddhist Lent, the end of the rainy season.
The nine-day traditional festival, beginning October 1, has already attracted tourists from every corner of the country and foreigners to view the grand illuminated boat procession along the mighty Mekong River, Nakhon Phanom governor Adisak Thep-art said yesterday.
Highlighting the festival is Wednesday night’s illuminated boat procession when they compete for prizes, said Mr Adisak.
Seven ethnic groups from the province will perform traditional dance, art and cultural activities nightly along with the sale of One Tambon One Product (OTOP) products along the banks of the river.
Also, one illuminated boat, decorated with bright lamps, will be released into the river every night during the festival, he said.
As many as 16 illuminated boats will compete for prizes on Wednesday night, marking the end of Buddhist Lent.
Besides the Nakhon Phanom authorities this year held light and sound shows in the middle of the Mekong River to enable tourists to learn more about the history of the province and seven ethnic groups will present full performances Wednesday evening, Mr Adisak added.
