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 three.
Click a picture to see a larger view.
From the Chiang Mai Zoo
Large Group from a School
Costumed Lady Between Groups
Group of Zebra Dancers
Red and White Dancers
Lilac Girl Dancers
Leopard Girls
Kitty Cats
A Group of Chubby Girls
Back with the Zebras
These People Carried Zig Zag Banners
People Who Sported Painted Bodies
A Group of Large People
Pulling a Mardi Gras Princess
A Gal Resting
Members of a Band
