What is the Khan Maak parade?
Traditionally, in Thai culture, the families of the couple discuss about the dowry (sinsod) prior to the engagement day. Once the amount is agreed, the engagement may then take place. The engagement ceremony starts by the groom forming the parade comprising his family and friends bringing the dowry and other necessary elements of the engagement to the bride's residence. Traditionally, the parade shall depart from the groom's residence to the bride's residence; however, nowadays the Khan Maak parade often proceeds few steps away from where the engagement ceremony takes place on the wedding day. The procession is a very joyful moment and sometimes accompanied by musicians who play long traditional trombones while dancing on the way to the bride's house. Once the parade arrives at the bride's house, the way is generally closed by the symbolic doors.