In the Thai language, “Xen” means worship or offering. The “Xen ban” ceremony is usually held between the second and third lunar months, when villagers prepare for a new crop season. This spiritual ritual, led by a shaman, invites the guardian deities of the village, rivers, mountains, land, and fields to attend, receive the villagers’ sincere offerings, and bless them with good health, bountiful harvests, and peace and prosperity.

At the opening of the ceremony, the shaman lights incense, prays to invite the deities to witness and receive the offerings, which include rice, paddy, maize, wine, cloth, pork, and chicken. The ritual is conducted solemnly and reverently, reflecting the distinctive cultural traits of the Thai ethnic people.

In the festive part, villagers gather to enjoy games, perform the traditional “xoe” dance, and sing “khap” folk songs, creating a joyful and close-knit community atmosphere.