Visakha Bucha Day 2026: history and significance of Buddhism’s global holy day
SATURDAY, MAY 23, 2026
Visakha Bucha Day 2026 falls on Sunday, May 31, marking the birth, enlightenment and passing of the Buddha, with merit-making and candlelit ceremonies held nationwide.
This Thai temple is worth billions of dollars. | The Signal EP18
FRIDAY, APRIL 03, 2026
From its rise as one of Thailand’s most influential Buddhist movements to allegations of financial misconduct, a dramatic 2017 temple siege, and the sudden closure of the case this year, this episode of #TheSignal looks at how faith, money, and political influence collided in one of the country’s most consequential modern controversies.
Temple crematorium in Nakhon Phanom shuts as fuel shortage disrupts funerals
MONDAY, MARCH 16, 2026
Wat Mahathat in Nakhon Phanom temporarily shuts its crematorium after fuel shortages prevent stockpiling oil needed for its pollution-control cremation furnace
Thailand’s temple built from 1.5 million beer bottles turns trash into timeless beauty
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 01, 2025
In the heart of Sisaket Province, northeastern Thailand, stands one of the world’s most remarkable temples, Wat Pa Maha Chedi Kaew, or the Temple of a Million Bottles.