Makha Bucha Day in Thailand

Magha Puja is one of the most important Buddhist holidays, falling on the full moon of the third month of the lunar calendar. This is a moving holiday that Buddhists usually celebrate in late February or early March. On this day, believers gather in numerous temples for colorful processions with flowers, incense and candles. The celebration preserves the memory of 1,250 Buddhist monks from all over the world who decided to gather at the same time to listen to the wise instructions and words of their teacher. 45 years later on the same day, Buddha delivered one of his last sermons and announced that soon (exactly three months later) he would leave earthly life and go to the state of nirvana (Vishakha Puja holiday). Makha Bucha is a national holiday, so this day is a day off from work in Thailand. The festivities begin in the morning and culminate in the evening after sunset. Followers of Buddhism gather in temples for sermons and solemn processions with candles, called wian tian. The processions can be compared to magical acts, when thousands of people pray in the street by candlelight. You don't have to be a Buddhist to take part in the celebration. In Bangkok, Sanam Luang Square is traditionally the central place of celebration. During the procession you can see tourists in the crowd. The celebration of Makha Bucha is accompanied by a call not to drink alcoholic beverages. That is why tourists who love Thai nightlife may be surprised by the limited activity of bars and entertainment venues for a few hours. Some pubs serve alcohol in coffee or tea cups to get around the rules. Despite its deep religious significance, Makha Bucha is, first and foremost, a family holiday. Before going to the temple, local residents gather with their families, passing on the tradition to new generations. Makha Bucha is one of the four Buddhist holidays recognized as national by the Thai government, along with Visakha Puja, Asalkha Puja and Khao Phansa.