CHONBURI, Thailand – Chonburi is preparing for the 155th annual Buffalo Racing Festival, one of Thailand’s most distinctive local traditions, with nine days of festivities running from October 17 to 25, 2026. Organized to celebrate the province’s cultural heritage, the festival reflects the longstanding bond between farmers and buffaloes, which have played an essential role in Thailand’s agricultural way of life for generations.
The highlight will take place on October 25 at the grounds in front of Chonburi Provincial Hall, where buffaloes will race for glory as spectators cheer them on. The event offers visitors an opportunity to experience a tradition deeply rooted in the identity and history of Chonburi.
Beyond the races, the nine-day festival will feature food stalls selling local dishes, sweets and refreshments, alongside vendors offering everyday goods, live music and traditional entertainment.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand’s Pattaya Office is inviting residents and visitors to experience the event, which celebrates a cultural tradition regarded as unique to Chonburi and unlike any other in Thailand.
With its mix of racing excitement, local food and time-honored customs, the festival provides an opportunity to discover the cultural character of Thailand’s Eastern Seaboard. The festivities run from October 17 to 25, with the main buffalo racing day on October 25 at Chonburi Provincial Hall grounds.
