Oars up for Phichit longboat races

Meanwhile, in the northern province of Phichit, they'll be taking to the water on September 1 and 2 for the annual longboat races on the Nan River.

Regarded as the country's best traditional-boat race, the event draws tens of thousands of spectators and oarsmen to the riverside at Tha Luang temple.

This year the race opens with an extravaganza, a huge boat procession on Saturday the 1st. More than 100 longboats will complete for the royally bestowed trophy.

Live concerts and a food fair will add to the fun. Come for a splash or stay ashore and join the cheerleaders.