Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from ShutterHeart Stories contributing photographers!
ShutterHeart Stories visited the “Taste of Thailand Festival” for a glimpse of all things Thai. It was a day full of wonderful things to see and eat, Green Papaya Salad was the favorite of this photographer.
The Thai Art of Fruit and Vegetable Carving is a valuable heritage of Thailand and one of its oldest art forms. Thai fruit carving’s roots date back over 700 years to the 14th century during Loi Kratong, a popular festival held annually during a full moon in the 12th lunar month. A Thai King declared Thai fruit carving a national art practiced exclusively by ladies of the royal court and only to be taught in the palace. Today, Thai primary schools teach Thai fruit carving to girls beginning at age 11.
Dating back to ancient times, there is a rich flower arranging tradition in Thailand; floral art is an integral part of birth celebrations, royal feasts, and other religious ceremonies. Places of worship are never complete without flowers. Thailand is a classic example of a country with a rich flower tradition. Floral art is an integral part of the celebration of life, royal feasts and religious ceremonies.
We were entertained by dancers sharing dances of the various regions of Thailand in their beautiful costumes. Demonstrations of Muay Thai martial arts brought competitors on stage to show us about this form of martial arts. After a break for lunch which was full of many wonderful food offerings by the various vendors in the food court, we returned for more dancing and ended the day with the dance team involving the audience in some Thai dancing.
As we headed home we stopped once more to enjoy the beautiful flower arrangements and fruit carving demonstrations. A great time was had by all!
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