AUGUST

Taung Pyone Spirit Festival

Date                     : 8th Waxing to Full Moon Day of Wagaung

Location             : Taung Pyone Village, near Mandalay

Duration            : 8 days

Taung Pyone is the site where two brothers serving a king of Bagan im the 11th century were executed. They became powerful spirits or Nats. This festival in their honour is attended by tens of thousands of mediums and worshippers. During the festival, toddy palm wine, whisky, rum, grilled rabbit and fried chicken are offered to the two spirit brothers. Orchestras come to play for the mediums who dance to make the spirits 'joyful'.

Yadana Gu Spirit Festival

Date                     : 1st to 8th Wanning of Wagaung

Location             : Amarapura, Mandalay Region

Duration            : 8 days

This festival honours the mother of the two powerful spirit brothers in Bagan area. She is the Goddess of Popa and her main shrine is on Popa Crest, near Bagan. She is a powerful spirit and protector of women.