The Happenings: 3 Events We Can’t Miss in May

A globe-trotting round-up of four unmissable events taking place across the world this May.

1. Expo 2025 Osaka

Yumeshima, Osaka, Japan

April 13 – October 13, 2025

Fifty-five years after hosting Japan’s – and Asia’s – first World Expo (expo2025.or.jp), the event returns to the city of Osaka in 2025. Under the theme “People’s Living Lab,” this six-month celebration is intended to be a model for Japan’s vision of Society 5.0, where technology enhances human potential. The circular waterfront site is located on a man-made island. Over 150 countries are participating this year, including pavilions by dozens of local companies and 60 nations. Some of the highlights include a cooperative effort by five Nordic countries, China’s massive 3,500 square-meter structure and the Czechia Pavillion with its spiraling glass panels.

Excited for the Expo? Fly to Osaka with Thai Airways!

2. Flower Festival in Sicily

Noto, Sicily, Italy

May 16-20, 2025

Imagine a Sicilian Street transformed into a breathtaking canvas of flowers depicting iconic scenes from the operas of Giacomo Puccini, one of Italy’s most celebrated composers responsible for masterpieces such as La Bohème and Tosca. That’s the magic of the 45th Noto’s Infiorata (infioratadinoto.it), the famous annual flower festival. The Baroque Procession adds grandeur with period costumes, flag-wavers, and musicians, celebrating Sicily’s rich cultural heritage.

Explore the hidden gems of mediterranean, fly to Italy with Thai Airways!

3. Yasothon’s Rocket Festival

Yasothon, Thailand

Second week of May 2025

A centuries-old tradition, the Bun Bang Fai Festival is a vibrant merit-making ceremony held across Thailand and Laos to call for rain from Phaya Thaen, the Rain God. Among these celebrations, Yasothon’s Rocket Festival stands out as the most spectacular. Here, colossal handmade rockets — ranging from 12kg Bang Fai to the massive 120kg Bang Fai Saen — are launched high into the sky in thrilling competitions. Festivities include colorful traditional dance processions and the lively Rocket Street Food event, where visitors can savor regional delicacies while enjoying live music.

Experience the spectacular festival once in a life time, fly to Ubon Ratchathani with Thai Airways and connect to Yasothon!