Phetchabun Province is holding its annual Um Phra Dam Nam festival from 8 to 17 October 2026. Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul presided over the opening ceremony on 11 October, continuing a tradition that stretches back more than 400 years.

At the heart of the festival is Phra Buddha Maha Thammaracha, a revered Buddha image regarded as the spiritual symbol of the province. The highlight is a ceremony in which the image is carried into the Pa Sak River at Wang Makham Faeb, in front of Wat Bot Chana Man, as local residents gather to honor their faith and keep a cherished tradition alive.

According to local legend, the custom began when fishermen, after an unsuccessful day of fishing, discovered a Buddha image emerging from the water. The image later vanished and was found once again in the river, prompting local rulers to establish the annual ceremony.

The ritual is traditionally believed to bring timely rainfall, fertile soil, abundant harvests, and protection from disease. Today, Um Phra Dam Nam remains one of Phetchabun's most distinctive cultural events, reflecting the province's deep Buddhist faith and enduring community spirit.

Come witness the sacred Buddha image meet the waters of the Pa Sak River, and experience a living tradition that has united Phetchabun for generations. The festival runs through 17 October, so there's still time to join in.