Nan is renowned for its traditional boat racing festival, held in October/November each year. Part of the celebrations of the local “Black Ivory” and “Tod Kathin” festivals, the elaborately decorated dug-out boats are hand-adzed and carved from large tree-trunks.

For centuries, long-boat races have been held annually in provinces with a major waterway running through them. Long-boat racing is one of the traditional rites which commemorates the end of the Buddhist Rains Retreat. It takes place mainly in the 10th and/or 11th lunar months (around September/October) when the water level is at its peak. At present, long-boat racing is considered a national sport. Its history can be traced back to the Ayutthaya period, some 600 years ago. In that time, boat racing was only a way to keep boat teams fit for national defense.

Racing boats are usually made from dugout tree trunks and can accommodate up to 60 oarsmen (commonly dressed in the same colour) in a double row. The festival event attracts hundreds of spectators. Trophies and prizes are given to the winning teams at the end.

The races on the Nan river are colourful and unequalled because the racing boats are brightly adorned with imaginatively designed prows. The cheering squads on the river bank are usually rumbustious and joyful.

*Source: Wikipedia

Golden Orange Fair

Held annually in mid-December, at the Provincial Stadium. The sweet golden oranges are a famous horticultural crop from Nan Province. The fair features Beauty Contests, golden orange parade contest, and booth displays by both Nan  government and private enterprises, plus sundry other entertainments.