September kicks off a time of celebration in Myanmar, as practicing Buddhists prepare for the end of Lent.

Throughout the month, communities around the Southeastern Asian country will host a number of cultural festivals — which can be found on Myanmar’s tourism organization’s Facebook events calendar.

“Despite the recent growth in the number of tourists coming to Myanmar, the actual number of overseas tourists visiting places like Bagan or Inle Lake is only 280,000 people per year, so there is plenty of space to accommodate more tourists. By putting up a calendar of these extraordinary events on Facebook, we hope to assist tourists and other visitors in planning their trip to or around Myanmar,” said Ma May Myat Mon Win, chairperson, Myanmar Tourism Marketing.

A few upcoming festivals include:

Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda Festival 
The festival showcases boats with up to 50 rowers who pull a barge with sacred Buddha images from one village to another on the beautiful Inle Lake. Charter a private boat to enjoy front-row seats to this unique procession, Sept. 21–Oct. 8.

Dancing Elephant Festival 
For a memorable and authentic cultural experience, head to Kyauke, a village famous for its papier-mâché elephant costumes. The festival features costumed dancers and offers the opportunity to experience Myanmar village life. The festivities take place Oct. 4–6.

Thadingyut
Also known as the Festival of Lights, the Thadingyut Festival, Oct. 4–6, marks the end of Lent and is recognized as a time to pay respects to parents, teachers and elderly people. On the full moon day in October, houses and pagodas are lit with candles. If you visit during the festival, grab a candle and walk around in the evening to experience the magical celebration.

The timing of these events also coincides with the end of Myanmar’s green season — the perfect time to visit and enjoy moderate temperatures and lush landscapes.