Bangkok:The Department of Religious Affairs is actively participating in the 61st annual Bun Tan Kway Salak festival, with efforts focused on preserving the valuable cultural heritage of Thailand. Mr. Jetsada Cheewavichvalakul, Director-General of the Department of Religious Affairs, along with other department executives, inaugurated the festival by cutting the ribbon at the 1st Army Area Command on Ratchadamnoen Nok Road, Dusit District. The procession then moved to Wat Benchamabophit Dusitvanaram in Bangkok.
According to Thai News Agency, the Ministry of Culture, through the Department of Religious Affairs, is playing a significant role in maintaining Lanna cultural traditions at the 61st Northern Thai Lottery (Salakbhat) Merit-Making Ceremony. This event, held from October 16-18, 2026, at Wat Benchamabophit Dusitvanaram, highlights a cultural heritage deeply rooted in Northern Thailand, showcasing the region's Buddhist faith and ancestral gratitude.
The festival features a vibrant procession of offerings and gifts, complemented by cultural performances from networks across 10 northern provinces. This initiative aims to preserve Lanna traditions and provides an opportunity for individuals from northern Thailand living in Bangkok and nearby areas to honor their deceased relatives. It also serves as a platform for Buddhists and the general public to engage with northern Thai culture and contribute to the preservation of Thai cultural heritage.
Mr. Jetsada Cheewavichvalakul pointed out that the traditions marking the End of Buddhist Lent are diverse in form and identity across different regions, yet they hold significant importance for the Buddhist community's way of life and faith. Promoting such activities enables people, especially youth, to learn about Buddhist traditions and principles and aids in preserving local culture. Additionally, these events promote tourism and create revenue opportunities for local entrepreneurs through the sale of goods, food, and community products.
Furthermore, the Department of Religious Affairs, under the Ministry of Culture, is promoting several End of Buddhist Lent festivals. These include the Chakkraphra, Thod Pha Pa, and Longboat Racing traditions in Surat Thani Province from October 23-31, 2026; the annual Beehive Castle Offering Ceremony at Wat Pathum Wanaram, Bangkok, from October 24-25, 2026; the Tak Bat Tevorohana ceremony in Uthai Thani Province from October 26-27, 2026; and the End of Buddhist Lent Tak Bat Tevorohana Festival 'Following the Path of Merit, Warming the Heart' in Kalasin Province from October 30-31, 2026. These events aim to engage the public in merit-making, impart religious teachings, offer a taste of local culture, and ensure the continuity of Thai traditions.