Representatives and cultural troupes of the seven States and seven Divisions of the Union of Myanmar dressed in colourful, traditional costumes gather at venues across the country. Traditional entertainment highlights the beauty of the different ethnic groups found within the Union. The Shwedagon Pagoda Festival is held on the day of the full moon of Tabaung and is one of the month s biggest events. During this festival, visitors can get a feel for the spirituality of the people of Myanmar by participating in events at temple fairs or by observing the rituals of the holiday. It simultaneously marks the end of the old year and beginning of the new.
Young people gather together to sing and dance, and to playfully throw water on each other.
Throughout the Thingyan Carnivals decorative floats and water throwing pandals are seen everywhere in both towns and cities alike. It is an important Buddhist holiday and many processions are held at temple grounds throughout the country. The onset of monsoon season makes June and July relatively quiet months in Myanmar. There are, however, various smaller Buddhist festivals to be enjoyed. According to tradition, Nats are spirits that must be appeased or they will wreak havoc in people's lives.