Boat racing
For centuries, longboat racing has been held annually in those provinces with major waterways. Longboat racing is one of the traditional rites which commemorates the end of the Buddhist rains retreat. It takes place mainly in the September-October.
Racing boats are usually made from dugout tree trunks and can accommodate up to 60 oarsmen in a double row. The festival event attracts hundreds of spectators. Trophies and prizes are given to the winning teams at the end. The races on the Nan River are colourful as the racing boats are brightly adorned with imaginatively designed prows. The cheering squads on the river banks are usually rumbustious and joyful.