The grand opening of the 155th Chonburi Buffalo Racing Festival for the year 2026 marked the only event of its kind in Thailand and worldwide, with large crowds of Thai and international tourists gathering to watch.
At 7:30 a.m. on 25 October 2026, Mr. Narit Niramaiwong, Governor of Chonburi, led the traditional parade of decorated carts at the 155th Chonburi Buffalo Racing Festival. The event was held on a grand scale, with Mr. Wittaya Khunpluem, Chonburi Provincial Administrative Organization President, the Deputy Governor, local officials, community leaders, residents, students, and schoolchildren participating in the procession from Phaspetra Road through Wachiraprakarn Road and Jetjamnong Road, ending at the front field of Mueang Chonburi District Office. The route was lined with many residents and tourists eager to enjoy the colorful spectacle, which featured beautifully decorated buffaloes, humorous displays, and a parade of ornate buffalo floats.
At 10:00 a.m., at the central stage, Mr. Narit Niramaiwong, Governor of Chonburi, presided over the opening ceremony. The "Chonburi Buffalo Racing Festival" was officially declared open for its 155th edition, unique in Thailand and the world, at a temporary field in front of the Mueang Chonburi District Office. Various local agencies participated, and the traditional release of buffaloes marked the official start of the buffalo races. The competition was divided into five categories: Super Mini, Special Mini, Small Mini, Medium Mini, and Large Mini.
The event also featured numerous activities, including contests for healthiest buffalo, most beautiful buffalo, and funniest buffalo, an oil pole climbing competition with cash prizes, traditional sports, an amulet contest, community product sales, and a Northern Village Miss contest. Many local residents, visitors from nearby areas, and foreigners attended the races and festivities. The event is expected to generate economic activity exceeding 10 million baht.
The buffalo racing tradition is an ancient, original custom unique to Thailand and the world. It is held annually on the 14th day of the waxing moon of the 11th lunar month, one day before the end of Buddhist Lent; this year falling on 25 October. Marking its 155th occurrence, the festival preserves a long-standing Thai tradition, provides rest for farmers weary from rice cultivation, allows buffaloes a break from plowing, and honors the buffalo as a valuable and respected animal in Thai agriculture.
Furthermore, residents of Chonburi believe that if the race is not held in any given year, a major fire or widespread disease causing many buffalo deaths will occur. The buffalo racing proceeded with lively excitement amid enthusiastic cheers from a large crowd of spectators.