Alcohol ban: On the five Buddhist holy days (Makha, Visakha, Asarnha Bucha, Khao Phansa, Ok Phansa) a 24-hour nationwide alcohol sales ban applied in 2026, with limited exemptions (e.g. airports, licensed hotels, designated tourist zones). Check the current rules. Rules can change per year and province; check the current rules. nationthailand.com: 40069132 ↗ angthong.prd.go.th: 388517 ↗
When and where
When: Around Ok Phansa (full moon of the 11th month, October)
Rule: Lunar calendar. 2026: festival 22-28 October, main night 26 October.
Dates can change. Check the current date shortly before your trip with the local organisers or the tourist office.
About Naga Fireball Festival (Nong Khai)
Around Ok Phansa, according to local belief, red fireballs rise from the Mekong, offered by the Naga serpent. Thousands gather on the riverbank at Nong Khai, Phon Phisai and Rattanawapi to see them. Scientists suspect natural explanations, but the mystery draws many visitors each year. The festival has parades, light shows and rituals for the serpent. Sightings are not guaranteed, so treat it as a cultural experience.
Getting there
Nong Khai is reached via Udon Thani (flight) plus transfer, or night train from Bangkok; Phon Phisai is about 50 km east.
Highlights
- Red fireballs Mysterious lights rise from the water.
- Mekong riverbank Thousands wait on the bank after dark.
- Parades Light processions and rituals for the Naga.
Tips for Naga Fireball Festival (Nong Khai)
- Go to Phon Phisai or Rattanawapi for the best chance of fireballs.
- Book hotels months ahead and expect crowds.
- There is no guarantee you will see them.
Naga Fireball Festival (Nong Khai) on the map
Pinch to zoom; tap a point for more info. Open circles: approximate location.
The location on the map is approximate.
The map shows Phon Phisai on the Mekong, a well-known place to see the fireballs. The official festival is in Nong Khai town.
Frequently asked questions about Naga Fireball Festival (Nong Khai)
When is Naga Fireball Festival (Nong Khai) in 2026?
Naga Fireball Festival falls in 2026 on 22–28 October, at Phon Phisai, Nong Khai (Mekong). Rule: Around Ok Phansa (full moon of the 11th month, October). An official or clearly documented source confirms this date.
Is there an alcohol ban during Naga Fireball Festival (Nong Khai)?
Yes. The Buddhist holy day Ok Phansa falls on 26 October in 2026, inside the festival. There are limited exemptions (e.g. airports, licensed hotels, tourist zones); check the current rules. Highlight: Red fireballs – Mysterious lights rise from the water.
Where is the best place to see Naga Fireball Festival (Nong Khai)?
Watch it best at Phon Phisai, Nong Khai (Mekong). Mysterious lights rise from the water. Nong Khai is reached via Udon Thani (flight) plus transfer, or night train from Bangkok; Phon Phisai is about 50 km east. Thousands wait on the bank after dark. Highlight: Parades – Light processions and rituals for the Naga.
Festivals near Phon Phisai, Nong Khai (Mekong)
- Ok Phansa (end of Buddhist Lent) 40 km as the crow flies
- Sakon Nakhon Wax Castle Festival 150 km as the crow flies
- Khon Kaen Silk and Phuk Siao Festival 180 km as the crow flies
- Nakhon Phanom Illuminated Boat Procession 195 km as the crow flies
- Phra That Phanom Worship Festival 210 km as the crow flies
Also in October
- Nan Boat Races
- Phichit Long Boat Races
- Koh Samui Buffalo Fighting
- Chonburi Buffalo Races
- Chak Phra Festival (Surat Thani)
- Chulalongkorn Day