Wan Ok Phansa (Thai: วันออกพรรษา; literally "day out of Vassa", ออก in Thai meaning outing or leave) is the last day of the Thai-Lao observance of Vassa. It occurs in October, three lunar months after the start of Vassa, known as Wan Khao Phansa (Thai: วันเข้าพรรษา).
The day is celebrated in Isan with processions of illuminated boats (Thai: ไหลเรือไฟ lai ruea fai, Northeastern Thai: ไหลเฮือไฟ lai huea fai), notably in Nakhon Phanom Province on the Mekong and in Ubon Ratchathani on the Mun River.
The main ceremonies involve boats 8 to 10 meters long, formerly made of banana wood or bamboo but now sometimes made of other materials. The boats are filled with offerings such as khao tom (glutinous rice candy wrapped in banana leaves) and decorated on the outside with flowers, candles and lamps. Boats are launched in the evening.
Additionally, some celebrants individually launch their own, smaller ships. Boat races are also held at this time in many places in the country in order to please the Nāga spirits. Along the Mekong, people launch small hot air balloons, acting as lanterns, around the night of Wan Ok Phansa.
Launching the boats (or the lanterns) symbolizes your wishes but also the elimination of unnecessary negative feelings.
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Today Thai Buddhists celebrate Wan Ok Phansa. In the evening, boats richly decorated, illuminated and garnished with food are offered to the rivers to satisfy the Naga spirits. #mythology #myth #legend #calendar #wanokphansa #Buddhism #mekong
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