DIARY - March 2007

Some key events and festivals in Thailand this month...

Asian Barred Ground Dove Cooing Competition - March 2 - 4, 2007 in Yala
Thais have long believed that doves are creatures that bring good luck to those who rear them. They are also regarded as symbols of purity and peace. Those with qualities specified by ancient texts are believed to bestow great wealth and honour upon the owner. The ASEAN Barred Ground Dove festival attracts dove-lovers from all over Thailand as well as from the neighbouring countries of Thailand, particularly from Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia and Brunei, to the southern city of Yala. The major highlight is a dove-cooing competition involving more than 1,400 participants.

International Kite Festival (Colouring the Sky) – March 3 - 4 2007 in Hua Hin
Every year, when the southerly wind sweeps across the open fields of the south of Thailand, the kite-flying season begins. For one long weekend each March, the skies above Hua Hin fill with kites from all over the world. Kite-flying has been a popular Thai sport for centuries.




Bangkok Fashion Week – from March 15th (dates TBC)
Over 30 Thai designers and a select number of international fashion gurus send their latest designs down the catwalk at Bangkok's Fashion Week. The shows will be taking place at Siam Paragon, Bangkok. Check their website: www.siamparagon.co.th/ for more details. The event is scheduled to take place twice a year to coincide with the traditional launch of the spring and autumn collections. Everything from high fashion to textiles, jewellery and accessories are showcased at the accompanying trade fair and designer's showcase held in the convention centre. Thai designers have come out in force in support of the event, including Nagara, Metta, Issue, Tube Gallery, Fly Now and others.



Pattaya International Music Festival – March 16 – 18
The entire beach will be converted into a giant entertainment spot. Over 30 international and local musicians (bands and singers) are invited to perform.