Chak Phra Festival – Celebrates the return of Buddha from heaven to earth and to be greeted by multitudes. Celebration takes place every year immediately after the end of 3 month rain retreat, about October. It is celebrated in many parts of southern Thailand, but especially in Surat Thani. The evening prior to Chak Phra Day, billboards are erected showing Buddha's story around the city and celebrations continue day and night. On land, the splendidly adorned floats are pulled across the town by the participants. At the same time, on water a float decorated with colourful Thai designs carries the Buddha image. Chak Phra festivities conclude with a boat race and traditional games.
Rambutan and Thai Fruit Festival – Rambutan trees were first planted in Surat Thani at Ban Na San in 1926 by Mr. K. Vong, a Chinese Malay. The annual Rambutan Festival is held during the August harvest.[1]
Krathong set adrift
Boon Sad Dean Sib Festival (Southern Traditional) – Held on the full moon of the 10th month in traditional calendar (about August). People go to the temple in remembrance of ancestors.
Surat Thani Songkran Festival – Thai New Year water festival is celebrated every year on 13 April.
Surat Thani Loy Krathong Festival on the Tapi River – Held on the full moon of the 12th month in the traditional Thai lunar calendar. In the Western calendar this usually falls in November. During the evening of the full moon, people launch symbolic floating "krathong" on the river.
Bull Fighting (กีฬาชนวัว) – This ancient popular sport on Ko Samui was once held in fields or on farms. Now, permanent stadiums in various districts take turns hosting the monthly bull fights.