Toking Kingkala, a Local Dance

Special Events

Wai-sa Phaya Mengrai
End of January or early February held to commemorate King Mengrai as the founder of Chiang Rai and the Lanna Kingdom, the festival features parades, cultural performances and various competitions.

Songkran and Chiang Sam n Boat Races
13-15 April, Songkran, the traditional Thai New Year, is well celebrated at Chiang Saen, where boat races between teams from Thailand, Lao PDR, China and Myanmar are held on the Mekong River. Cultural shows and beauty contests to crown the Queen of the Golden Triangle are other attractions.

Lychee Fair
Held the third weekend in May, the fair celebrates Chiang Rai's tastiest fruit, and also features various agricultural displays and exhibitions, local handicrafts, folk dancing and beauty contests.