The two-day event will be held at Phraya Krai Phakdi Sinakorn Lamduan Park in the province’s Khu Khan district. Established around 200 years ago, the district is home to a mix of Thai ethnic culture with language and traditions from Cambodia, Laos, Kui, Ger, and China.
TAT Surin office director, Chookiet Potito, told TTR Weekly that the festival is held annually for Thai-Khmer descendant to worship their ancestors and is an opportunity to promote tourism to the southern part of I-San provinces — Si Sa Ket, Surin and Buri Ram.
The traditions linked to the worship of ancestors are strongest along the Thai and Cambodian border, so visitors can experience outstanding culture and cuisine, he said.
“The event will attract over 10,000 Thais… tourism to the area breaks down to 80% Thai visitors and 20% foreigners.”
Visitors who join the event can also travel to other tourist attractions such as More E-Dang to see Preah Vihear temple in Cambodia, or travel another 60 km to Ubon Ratchathani, he said.
Today, Khu Khan is the second most populous district in the province and has numerous roads connecting it to all parts of the province dating back to its earlier importance as the provincial capital.
There are several temples dating back to the early era of Buddhism in the area and according to local legend a battle was fought north of the city circa 1400, which prompted the founding of Khu Khan by a Royal Decree under the family of the same name.
The San Don Ta pays homage to ancestors. This includes offering food, sweets and fruits. The ritual is held at the City Pillar in Khu Khan district.
During the two-day festival, visitors will see the ancestor- offering parade from 23 provincial administrations, banana contest, rice demonstration, worshiping ancestors’ ritual, folk art performances and OTOP products.