Kathin Ceremony Highlights

Kathin (กฐิน) is one of Thailand’s most important Buddhist merit-making festivals, celebrated annually at the end of Buddhist Lent (Vassa) — usually between October and November. It’s a joyful, community-based event that reflects Thai generosity, unity, and deep respect for monks and Buddhist traditions.

Kathin refers to the ceremonial offering of new robes and other necessities to Buddhist monks after they have completed their three-month rainy season retreat (Vassa). During the retreat, monks stay in one monastery to meditate, study, and refrain from traveling.

At the end of the retreat, laypeople express appreciation for the monks’ dedication by offering robes and supplies — an act believed to bring great merit (บุญ / bun).

Procession (ขบวนกฐิน / Khabuan Kathin)

• Villagers and devotees gather in colorful processions carrying robes, flowers, money trees, and offerings.

• Traditional music, dancing, and community joy accompany the event.

Offering Ceremony

The main event is the presentation of the Kathin robes (ผ้ากฐิน) to the monks.

Participants also offer other necessities like alms bowls, toiletries, and food.

Merit-Making & Sharing

People believe that joining the Kathin brings good karma, prosperity, and spiritual growth.

Kathin reinforces community bonds and collective generosity.
In rural areas, it often includes temple fairs, local food stalls, and traditional performances.
Each temple may receive the Kathin offering only once a year, so it’s a special honor for the donors and temple.

The Kathin season begins the day after the end of Buddhist Lent (usually in mid-October) and lasts for one month.
The specific date depends on each community’s arrangement and the lunar calendar.