​Listed as one of the ten weirdest festivals in the world, the famous monkey party, a festival in Lopburi Province Thailand, has gained a following among locals and attracts many international tourists around the world. What is so fascinating about watching monkeys eat and why has this event become an annual festival for this province?

​Growing up with my grandparents, eating Krayasart (Thai: กระยาสารท) every year became our ritual. Around October each year, there is an event in my village where people will come together to enjoy and participate in making Krayasart; a sticky mixed nut and grains snack used to make merit to our passed relatives on Sart Day. From my memory, this snack was arranged on a small block, about the size of an A5 piece of paper. Occasionally, we would pinch a small bite of this snack for ourselves. The process used is a great way to preserve food. The origin of this snack is closely related to Buddhism, Thai way of life and filial piety.