Bangkok: Surat Thani Province is holding its traditional boat procession festival from October 4-12. Surat Thani Municipality is organizing the event, featuring a traditional boat procession and long-boat race. Members of the public and educational institutions are entering 21 boats.

According to Thai News Agency, Surat Thani Municipality organized the traditional boat procession and long-boat races, with the opening ceremony held at Thesaban 4 School, Wat Phothawat, Muang District. The event will include a contest for a replica of the Phanom Phra boat.

This year sees a record number of boats participating, with entries from the public and educational institutions reaching 21, a significant increase from last year’s five boats. The land-based procession is scheduled for the final day of Buddhist Lent, marking the first day of the waning moon of the 11th lunar month. Villagers will participate by making merit, offering both sweet and savory food to monks, followed by the procession.