Ya Mo Festival 2026: 200th Anniversary of the Golden Shawl Changing Ceremony – Event Dates Announced

The Victory Day celebration of Thao Suranari, known as the "Ya Mo Festival," in 2026 is especially significant as it marks the 200th anniversary of her heroic deeds. Nakhon Ratchasima province is hosting a grand event themed “200 Years of Glorious Heroism, Everlasting Faith.”

Background of the festival

This event commemorates the heroic acts of Khun Ying Mo (Thao Suranari), who rallied the people of Nakhon Ratchasima to fight the army of Chao Anouvong of Vientiane, securing victory in 1826 and saving Korat from crisis.

The annual celebration begins on 23 March, the date of Thao Suranari’s victory, and runs until early April, spanning 12 days and nights.

Highlight event calendar for 2026 (23 March – 3 April)

The schedule, especially for 25 March, marks the peak of the festival activities as follows:

Sunday, 22 March 2026

• Evening: Full rehearsal of the worship dance ceremony honoring Thao Suranari, involving thousands of Korat women at Ya Mo Plaza.

Monday, 23 March 2026 (Opening Day)

• Morning: Worship ceremony for the ashes and the golden shawl changing ceremony.
• Evening: Official opening ceremony and the grand worship dance—the largest in 200 years.
• Night: Fireworks celebration with seven sets and the start of the Light & Sound show.

Tuesday, 24 March 2026

• Nakhon Ratchasima beauty pageant (preliminary round).
• Korat silk fashion show at the provincial hall front.

Wednesday, 25 March 2026

On 25 March, entertainment and cultural activities intensify as follows:

• Light & Sound show: Narrating the 200-year history of Ya Mo's heroism.
• Concert: Featuring famous artists at the main stage.
• Retro floating market: Located near the moat, offering local foods and handmade products.
• Traditional sports competitions: Such as Sepak Takraw and Muay Thai in front of the provincial hall.
• 200-Year Exhibition: Showcasing Korat’s history and notable products from all 32 districts.

 Daily activities throughout the festival from 23 March to 3 April include: paying respects to Ya Mo with crowds offering gold leaf and prayers; Red Cross lottery booths offering grand prizes like cars, motorcycles, and electronics; OTOP product markets featuring local specialties like Thung Si Silk, Korat fried noodles, and Dan Kwian pottery; and traditional folk entertainment including likay theater, open-air films, and unique Korat musical performances.