Rain-calling Rocket Festival returns to Korat

NAKHON RATCHASIMA — On May 16, 2026, residents in Bua Lai district revived the long-standing northeastern tradition of Bun Bang Fai, or the Rocket Festival, as villagers gathered to build, parade and launch homemade rockets in a ritual seeking rain from Phaya Thaen, the deity of rain.

The lively scenes unfolded at Ban Nong Saeng in Bua Lai district, where community members worked together to preserve the Isaan folk tradition through rocket-making, colourful processions and ceremonial launches reflecting long-held local beliefs tied to the agricultural season.

Bun Bang Fai is one of the traditional "Heet Sip Song, Kong Sip See" customs observed across Isaan communities. The phrase refers to a long-standing cultural framework of 12 annual merit-making traditions and 14 community codes that guide religious life, social conduct and seasonal ceremonies in northeastern Thailand. Practised for generations, the festival honours Phaya Thaen, the deity of rain, and is believed to help ensure seasonal rainfall ahead of rice planting season.

Traditionally, rockets were made from bamboo, though many communities today use PVC pipes in place of bamboo cylinders. The rockets are packed with gunpowder, decorated and paraded through the village before launch.

The festival also features folk performances and traditional Isaan music, creating a festive atmosphere and drawing strong participation from local residents.

Footage from the event showed villagers working together to prepare the rockets, with many expressing pride in helping preserve the Bun Bang Fai tradition and pass local wisdom from one generation to the next.