Illuminated Boat Procession

Illuminated Boat Procession

The festival of the Illuminated Boat Procession or “Lai Reua Fai” in Thai and “Lai Heua Fai” in local dialect is an ancient tradition of northeastern people. In the past, the festival was held in several provinces in this region, later only some provinces still preserve this tradition especially Nakhon Phanom Province where the annual event draws visitors from different directions.
Originally, the boats were made of banana logs or bamboo but modern versions can be made of wood or synthetic materials. A boat’s length was about 8 to 10 meters. Inside the boat, there were sweets, steamed-sticky rice wrapped in banana leaves (Khao Tom Mud) and other offerings while the outside of the boat was decorated with flowers, joss-sticks, candles and lamps. At night the fire boats were launched on the Mekong River and illuminated in a spectacular display.
The festival of the Illuminated Boat Procession takes place at the end of the Buddhist Rains Retreat or Ork Phansa (usually some time during October). On this occasion, residents of several villages will jointly observe Ork Phansa by launching intricatedly decorated little boats on the Mekong River when the night falls. Boat racing and a wax castle procession are also included in the festival. The event was said to have carried down from several generations as a means to worship Lord Buddha who, according to Buddhist legend, returned to earth after completing his – month mission in heaven.
Meanwhile, the ceremony of launching fire boats will usually be performed in the evening before the sunset. Buddhist monks will be invited to chant, give precepts and deliver a sermon. However, the participants must bring joss-sticks and candles to take part in a religious rite. As soon as the sun’s rays disappear, the boats will be lit and launched on the Mekong River to worship Lord Buddha.
At this time, in the middle of the Mekong River, lights in various shapes from the floating boats can be seen from a long distance and this is considered as a significant symbol to uphold Buddhism. The event brings about happiness to all Buddhists while foreign visitors will enjoy watching a marvelous illuminated display.