When and where
Next edition: The date for next year is not confirmed yet; the festival is usually held in April.
When: Around Songkran (April) and the full moon of the 12th month
Rule: Lunar calendar. Variable: 2026 ran 1-5 April (annual fair); 2027 not yet known.
Dates can change. Check the current date shortly before your trip with the local organisers or the tourist office.
About Luang Pho Sothon Fair (Chachoengsao)
Wat Sothonwararam in Chachoengsao houses Luang Pho Sothon, one of Thailand's most revered golden Buddha images. According to legend the image floated down the river. During the annual fair thousands of devotees come with flowers and gold leaf, and there are performances and markets. Morning prayers are also held. It is one of the most important pilgrimage fairs in eastern Thailand.
Getting there
Chachoengsao is about 80 km from Bangkok; train or bus.
Highlights
- Golden Buddha One of the most revered images in Thailand.
- Pilgrims Thousands bring flowers and gold leaf.
- Fair Stalls and performances around the temple.
Tips for Luang Pho Sothon Fair (Chachoengsao)
- Dress neatly (cover shoulders and knees).
- Come early to avoid crowds.
- Combine with the nearby market.
Luang Pho Sothon Fair (Chachoengsao) on the map
Pinch to zoom; tap a point for more info. Open circles: approximate location.
The map shows Wat Sothonwararam, the temple of the famous Buddha.
Frequently asked questions about Luang Pho Sothon Fair (Chachoengsao)
When is Luang Pho Sothon Fair (Chachoengsao) in 2026?
Luang Pho Sothon Fair falls in 2026 on 1–5 April, at Wat Sothonwararam, Chachoengsao. Rule: Around Songkran (April) and the full moon of the 12th month. An official or clearly documented source confirms this date.
Where is the best place to see Luang Pho Sothon Fair (Chachoengsao)?
Watch it best at Wat Sothonwararam, Chachoengsao. One of the most revered images in Thailand. Chachoengsao is about 80 km from Bangkok; train or bus. Thousands bring flowers and gold leaf. Highlight: Fair – Stalls and performances around the temple. Wat Sothonwararam in Chachoengsao houses Luang Pho Sothon, one of Thailand's most revered golden Buddha images.
Is Luang Pho Sothon Fair (Chachoengsao) free to attend?
Yes, watching is free. The venue is Wat Sothonwararam, Chachoengsao. Dress neatly (cover shoulders and knees). Come early to avoid crowds. Highlight: Golden Buddha – One of the most revered images in Thailand. Highlight: Pilgrims – Thousands bring flowers and gold leaf. According to legend the image floated down the river.
Festivals near Wat Sothonwararam, Chachoengsao
- Chonburi Buffalo Races 35 km as the crow flies
- Bang Saen Wan Lai (Sand Pagodas) 45 km as the crow flies
- Phra Samut Chedi Fair (Samut Prakan) 55 km as the crow flies
- Bangkok Red Cross Fair 55 km as the crow flies
- New Year and Countdown Bangkok 60 km as the crow flies
Also in April
- Koh Samui Buffalo Fighting
- Chakri Memorial Day
- Full Moon Party (Koh Phangan)
- Phra Pradaeng Mon Songkran
- Sangkhlaburi Mon Songkran (Wat Wang Wiwekaram)
- Phanom Rung Festival (Sun Alignment)