I woke up a bit late yesterday to the sound of a marching band outside. They have a lot of celebrations in Nang Rong. I probably miss most of them since I am not always here. Anyway, I got out quickly and there they were a block away. I’m still not exactly sure what is was all about. The Banners across the street say “Father God of Nang Rong”. Apparently it was Chinese Thai specific celebration connected with the coming Chinese new year that emphasizes honoring of God (I’m not sure which one) and ancestors.
The parade had a short route and the band was standing more than marching. There were also people collecting money at the various shops along the way. This is a Chinese festival, so there were plenty of firecrackers going off in the street. Many shopkeepers had a table out front with offerings. The offerings seemed to follow a pattern with tea foremost, then water, oranges and incense in the back.
I’m told that this particular celebration is particular to Chinese Thais, not Chinese in general, and varies greatly from town to town in Thailand. I think the Chinese temple around the corner from my house toward the main road (yellow teardrop on our map) is involved with it, but am not sure.
I would like to know more, but few Thais in Nang Rong speak English, and most of those cannot go very deep. Unfortunately, I can’t go very deep with my Thai either, so can only find out the basics about these things. Many of the things I see going on about me will have to retain a certain amount of mystery.
