Wan Ok Phansa

Wan Ok Phansa (Thai: วันออกพรรษา; literally "the Final Day of the Vassa") is the last day of the Thai-Lao observance of Vassa. It occurs in October, three lunar months after Wan Kao Pansa.[1] In 2015 it will be celebrated on 27 October; in 2016 on 16 October.[2]

The day is celebrated in Isan by illuminated boat processions (Thai: ไหลเรือไฟ lai ruea fai, Isan: ไหลเฮือไฟ lai huea fai), notably in Nakhon Phanom Province on the Mekong and in Ubon Ratchathani on the Mun River.

The main ceremonies feature boats of 8–10 metres in length, formerly made of banana wood or bamboo, but now sometimes of other materials. The boats are filled with offerings such as khao tom (glutinous rice sweets wrapped in banana leaves) and decorated on the outside with flowers, candles and lamps. The boats are launched in the evening.

Additionally, some celebrants individually launch their own, smaller vessels. Boat races also take place around this time in many places throughout the country as a way to please the Naga spirits. Along the Mekong River, people launch little hot air balloon acting as a lantern around the night of Wan Ok Phansa.

Launching the boats (or the lanterns) symbolizes your wishes but also getting rid of unnecessary negative feelings


References

  1. ↑ "The Meaning of Wan Awk Pansa". Chiang Mai Best. Retrieved 28 June 2015.
  2. ↑ "Public Holidays and Bar Closures in Thailand". BoomBoomMe.com. Retrieved 28 June 2015.
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