Thailand offers every ingredient for a truly memorable holiday. Forested mountains in the north. Lush tropical beaches in the south. Ancient temples and historical wonders scattered the length and breadth of the kingdom. National parks for those who want something more wild and energetic. Remote islands for those who want to get away from it all. And whichever experience you choose, one thing remains constant is the distinctive Thai ambience, shaped by the peace-loving Buddhist culture, the long-standing tradition of hospitality, and the Thais' love of fun. Thais celebrate their past, their religion, their great historical and cultural events, the changes of the seasons, and the traditions of the agricultural calendar. Some festivals are national events or holidays and celebrated nationwide. Others are confined to one province or locality. Some are truly spectacular. Others are more modest. Most are characterised by good humour and religious devotion. All offer colourful insights into the lifestyle and culture. Many festival dates change each year, as they follow the lunar calendar. Bangkok Songkran, the Thai New Year, is celebrated nationally from 12th to 14th April. In Bangkok, festivities take place at Sanam Luang, where a revered Buddha image is bathed as part of the merit-making rituals. Over the years, the festival has become a boisterous affair of water throwing. Few people escape getting soaked. Visakha Puja in May marks the birth, death and enlightenment of the Buddha. It is celebrated with candlelight processions around important temples. At the Royal Ploughing Ceremony, held at Sanam Luang in May, oxen and Brahmin priests predict the coming agricultural season. The Golden Mount Fair is the best chance to see a typical Thai temple fair, complete with fun fair, performers and candlelight processions. The Trooping of the Colours in the Royal Plaza is the best of many nationwide celebrations marking King Bhumibol's birthday. Central Plains Every July, pilgrims flock to the Temple of the Holy Footprint near Saraburi for the elaborate Phra Phutthabat Fair which features local theatre and folk music performances. Loi Krathong, the water-lantern festival, is celebrated nationwide on the full-moon night in November. People flock to waterways to launch small lotus-shaped vessels which float away the sins of the past year and bring good luck for the future. River Khwae Bridge Week Fair, held at Kanchanaburi in late November and early December, marks the building of the infamous bridge with historical displays and a dramatic sound and light show.