This is the time of year when Thai Bhuddhists all visit their local temples to make merits, chant and listen to sermons, and offer sacred holy offerings. Now, this would seem pretty normal at first glance. During the Tak Bat Dok Mai festival, apart from the conventional holy offerings such as food, incense, and candles, locals also offer Dok Khao Phansa, a special kind of flower. This flower is only in bloom during the Bhuddhist Lent, which is in this time of year. Other activities during this festival include a local product shopping market, Thai traditional games, art and cultural processions.