Looking to cap off the year with some fun festivals in Asia? If you’re looking for unique and unforgettable travel experiences to end the year, look no further than Asia’s vibrant calendar of festivals in the coming months.
6 Fun Festivals in Asia You Should Experience Before the Year Ends
Cambodia: Bon Om Touk
Start marking your calendars for fun festivals in Asia from November 14-16 to experience Cambodia’s Bon Om Touk, the Cambodian Water Festival. This lively celebration marks the end of the rainy season and the reversal of the Tonle Sap River’s flow. Witness thrilling boat races, dazzling fireworks displays, and illuminated floats gliding gracefully along the riverbanks. Head to Phnom Penh, the capital city, to truly immerse yourself in the festivities.
Thailand: Loy Krathong and Yi Peng
From November 15-16, Thailand comes alive with the dazzling Loy Krathong and Yi Peng festivals. Loy Krathong, the Festival of Lights, sees beautifully decorated floats released onto rivers, a gesture of respect to the water spirits. Witness vibrant fireworks, traditional dance performances, and bustling markets.
(c) Thinapob | Loy Krathong is one of the most beautiful festivals in Thailand
Meanwhile, in northern Thailand, Chiang Mai hosts the Yi Peng festival. Here, the night sky explodes with thousands of lanterns, symbolizing the release of misfortunes and a wish for brighter futures.
South Korea: Seoul Winter Festa
Embrace the winter chill at Seoul Winter Festa, the city’s largest winter celebration. From December 13 – January 5, be mesmerized by a stunning array of light displays and events that blend tradition with modern flair at Gwanghwamun Square, Dongdaemun Design Plaza, and other key locations. Don’t miss the Seoul Light Media Art Exhibition, the Seoul Lantern Festival, and the charming Christmas market either, and be prepared to be swept off your feet by dazzling light shows, captivating projections, lively music performances, ice skating rinks, and a spectacular New Year’s countdown.
Philippines: Christmas
When it comes to fun festivals in Asia, the Philippines takes Christmas to a whole new level! Celebrated with festive parades, vibrant decorations, and lively street parties; the Christmas season stretches from as early as September. Head to San Fernando, Pampanga, the Christmas Capital of the Philippines, to witness the Giant Lantern Festival (Ligligan Parul). Here, the most spectacular Christmas lanterns are on display from December 14 – January 1. Experience the warmth of Filipino culture through Simbang Gabi as well, a series of dawn masses leading up to Christmas Day.
China: Dongzhi Festival
On December 21, experience the Dongzhi Festival in China, also known as the Winter Solstice Festival. This celebration marks the longest night of the year and the gradual return of longer daylight hours. Immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere at Shanghai’s Yuyuan Garden Bazaar where traditional decorations and delicious local delicacies abound. In Beijing, visit the Temple of Heaven, a renowned site for cultural performances and traditional ceremonies during this time.
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