Elephant Day in Thailand, 2013: at the Mae Sa Elephant Camp, Chiang Mai, and Elephant Painting

     I was invited by a friend to drive from Chiang Mai for 40 kilometers, to see the Elephant camp at Mae Sa. I did not realize that it was Thailand's National Elephant day. It was a truly nationwide phenomenon, and I was at the heart of the Celebrations to prise the beloved Thai elephant. The Thai news teams were there, as was the Governor of Chiang Mai and many "VIPs." 

    Following a procession of over 75 elephants from giant tusked beasts, to small toddlers, they walked down the hill together and ate side by side. Over 75 elephants ate together in a Buffet for the revered animals on this auspicious day. Please look at my pictures, and watch the videos, because there is no other way to visualize the unique day of elephant pampering and respect.


This Elephant had the largest and most heavy looking Tusks. He was beautiful.



   All of the elephants marched in together, stood side by side, and then ate until all of the food you see was gone. What a spectacular event. The elephants were sure treated to a special day, as was the crowd. You have to open the video below. I will upload the video once my Internet is faster.

      In addition to the most enormous buffet there has ever been on the face of this planet, the elephant camp offered guests to watch highly choreographed traditional Thai dancing. There were also a few short plays, and some elegantly dressed male and female dancers. All visitors were allowed to enter and participate for free. I was happy to see so many kids having a special day, and get away from their regular less exciting routine.