Folk Games and Sports |199
Thai Folk Games
Play of Enjoyment
Thai people’s ways of life are engaging with nature. Their surrounding
environment, therefore, have been adapted into traditional Thai games based on
nature, for fun and enjoyment. In addition, another factor is that social conditions
determine the style of play, consistent with daily life and local popularity. Sometimes,
games also enhance the player’s skills, apart from bringing them pleasure.
The meaning of “folk games” refers to volunteer activities in accordance with
the local identities, for fun, love and unity among group members. Thai folk games
are different from English words Play and Game (Play means play for fun, alone or
in group by their own free will, while Game means play with fixed rule. Players must
follow the rule set). This is because Thai games are mostly played in group, with
rules of play, verses and rhythms. It is often imitates real-life situations.
Thai folk games can be divided into children’s play with a focus on skills
enhancement and development in many areas; play of children and adults for fun
and solidarity; and play in festivals to inherit local culture.
• Mak Kep (pebbles tossing and picking)
• Doen Kala (coconut-shell walking)