The month was ushered in with the celebration of 'Sweet December' on the night of Nov. 30. This is a Karen Christian holiday that we haven't been able to get a good explanation of that involves lots of dancing and karaoke. Apparently it is recognizing the beginning of advent, and the general build up to Christmas. Still not sure, but it was the kick off to a month of partying. Basically, they leave the stage up from Sweet December through the end of the month.
December 1st was World AIDS Day, which merited a parade through town, including distribution of condoms to anyone and everyone on the street (the acceptance of which is surely a remnant of Thailand's 100% condom campaign) and a day of festivities at Mae Tao Clinic, including a 'lady boy' fashion show (this is the not-so-PC by our standards term, used in a very underrogatory way here for the (almost) completely accepted group of transgendered men who live as women).
Friday (December 5th) is the King's Birthday. This is a VERY important holiday in Thailand. Afterall, we love the King! He is the heart and soul of all Thais! And he seeds clouds. Oh yes. A fun fair (read: carnaval) has been set up all week, complete with (miniature) ferris wheel and fried bugs. Thursday eve he gives his big address, and Friday, par-tay! But with no alcohol, because he is Buddhist, and that would be very disrespectful.
The 6th, Saturday, is Dr. Cynthia's birthday - a more apropos holiday for the majority Burmese Mae Sot. She is the founder of the large clinic for refugees and migrants here. Saturday there will be _major_ partying at the clinic. Along with skits, musical performances , traditional ethnic dances, and lots and lots of karaoke.
And fit in there somewhere is Karen new year. I'm not entirely sure which day, but I'm sure I'll find out soon.. Also, Shan new year was last week. All of this leads into Christmas, which is surprisingly big here considering that Thailand is predominantly Buddhist. Any excuse for a party I guess.
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