A Day in a Town in Thailand: Wan Ok Phansa

Wan Ok Phansa literally means day of going of "Vassa." Vassa is the three-month annual retreat observed by Theravada Buddhists. Wan Ok Pahnsa is the last day of the observance of the Thai-Lao observance of Vassa.

There are different ceremonies observed around Thailand. But here in a small town in Klaeng, Rayong, they celebrated it by a procession of Thai dancers, girls and boys wearing traditional costumes, and people lining up by the streets to watch the show and give offerings to the monks.

 

A novice monk receiving offers from people.

Street dancing ladies. They looked hot and tired yet they still danced until the very end

of the procession.

 

Literally a money tree.

 

Boys in Thai costume, holding pans to receive offers for the temple.

 

A girl receiving offers for the temple.

 

This boy did the heavy lifting of playing the music. He's playing a

traditional music using a Thai musical instrument.

 

People paying respect (some are kneeling and doing the wai) while some 

offered moneys and flowers.

 

A girl receiving offers for the temple.

 

A tattooed novice monk.

 

Grandmas ready their rice offerings.

 

Picture because doggo.

 

A little girl giving her best under the intense heat.

 

Tired participants

Girls being girls.