Chiang Mai: Chiang Mai residents join in making merit by offering alms to monks, marking the 729th anniversary of the city’s founding, for good fortune, and holding a ceremony to pay homage and perform beautiful fingernail dances to open Songkran 2568.

According to Thai News Agency, this morning, Chiang Mai residents and tourists dressed in local costumes gathered to offer alms to monks on the occasion of Chiang Mai’s 729th anniversary. In a display of Lanna cultural tradition, 729 dancers, both young and old, wearing sarongs and shawls adorned with yellow orchids, marched along the road carrying offerings. They proceeded to the Three Kings Monument to perform the Yo Suai Wai Sa ceremony, honoring the contributions of Phraya Mangrai, King Ramkhamhaeng of Sukhothai, and King Ngam Mueang of Phayao, the trio who founded the city of Nopphaburi Si Nakhon Ping Chiang Mai in 1296. Representatives from government agencies also participated in the ceremony by presenting offerings.

The event culminated in a traditional fingernail dance performed by the gathered dancers to pay homage to the three former kings. The performance captivated the attending tourists. Throughout the Songkran festival, Chiang Mai will showcase Lanna arts and culture, alongside traditional water festivities starting today.