We were delighted that we arrived in time to participate in the Chiang Mai Mardi Gras, The celebration has nothing to do with Fat Tuesday or Carnival. The Thais just borrowed the term for a celebration they have in the Night Bazaar area. It marks the beginning of the tourist "high" season. Thanon Chang Klan, the street that runs through the night market area is closed to vehicular traffic, and tables and stalls are set up on the street advertising or selling various items. The stands at the regular Night Bazaar are in operation, so it's one big shopping street. Among the activities at Mardi Gras that we took part in are a beauty contest and a huge parade which were on separate night. The parade was very long. It probably lasted three hours for it to tottle down Chang Klan, but we walked along the route of the parade thereby seeing the floats and bands and groups as they waited to march. I've divided the photos of the parade into three albums. This is album number one.
Click a picture to see a larger view.
The First Band
First Crew
Second Crew
Small Group
Costumed Boy on a Horse
Lanna Banners
Group of Women
Another Small Group
Small Group
Decorated Car
Group of Thai Dancers
Another Group
Lady in a Bicycle
Various Folks in the Parade
