The Akha Swing Festival Set to Begin – A Swinging Good Time in Chiang Rai!

A cultural festival that is a part of the rich heritage of the Akha people, the unique Akha Swing Festival offers visitors some fascinating cultural insights. This annual event in Chiang Rai generally takes place at the end of August or at the beginning of September, coinciding with the rainy season. Different villages celebrate this festival on different dates and those staying at a hotel in Chiang Rai including properties like Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort can plan a local excursion accordingly.

The Akha people are said to have migrated to Thailand from China over a century ago. Tied in with their traditions, the Akha Swing Festival is a time that the community pray for successful crop yields as well as show their gratitude to the Goddess of Abundance. An integral part of the event worth witnessing, women swing back and forth on a specially designed village swing as they recite Akha verses.