For anyone looking to experience one of Thailand’s oldest and most exciting traditions, the Phichit Longboat Race 2026 offers front-row seats to fun-filled water-borne action along the Nan River.
Held at Wat Tha Luang, Phichit province, the race will take place from August 28th until September 6th, 2026.
Experience the Phichit Longboat Race
Source: Phichit Tourism Facebook Page
Longboat racing is one of Thailand’s oldest water-related traditions, with roots that can be traced all the way back to the country’s Ayutthaya Kingdom period. Today, it is considered a national sport.
The tradition is closely associated with the Buddhist Lent period, with races traditionally held during the rainy season when rising river levels provide favorable conditions for racing.
In Phichit, the tradition comes alive along the Nan River in front of Wat Tha Luang, where rowing teams gather to compete before crowds of spectators.
In 2026, participants will once again take to the water to compete for the highly coveted Royal Cup, graciously bestowed by His Majesty the King.
Visitors can join locals in cheering on the competing longboat teams from the riverbank. Beyond the racing itself, the event also offers the chance to enjoy Phichit’s local delicacies and browse OTOP products.
For more information, please follow the Phichit Provincial Public Relations Office through its Facebook page.
Source: Phichit Tourism Facebook Page
Longboats in Thai Culture
The exact origins surrounding Thailand’s longboat racing remain unknown, but mentions of the tradition first entered recorded history during the country’s Ayutthaya Kingdom period.
Longboats are said to have been used in Ayutthaya-era royal ceremonies, particularly during the flood season. However, it wasn’t only royalty that benefited from these vessels, as it is also believed that villagers would challenge each other to friendly boating contests for fun and to strengthen their relationships.
Considered a national sport today, annual longboat racing events can be found all over Thailand, most notably in the provinces of Phichit, Nan, and Phitsanulok.
Phichit province
Source: Vsport Kamphaeng Website
One of Thailand’s lower northern provinces, Phichit is perhaps best known as the setting of the legend of “Krai Thong,” one of Thailand’s most famous folktales. The province is home to various temples, such as Wat Tha Luang, and is also known for Bueng Si Fa, Thailand’s largest source of fresh water.
Phichit’s famed annual longboat racing tradition comes alive each year around the end of the Buddhist Lent period. Other events timed around Thai Buddhist Lent include the Candle Festival in Ubon Ratchathani.