The Isaan is an area rich in folklore, fables and fantastic beings. The northern boundary of the Isaan is the mighty Mekhong river which flows 4,200 km. (2,610 mi) from it's headwaters in China's Qinghai Province near the border with Tibet, through Myanmar (Burma), Thailand, Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam to spill into the South China Sea.
The Mekhong is believed to be the home to the mythical serpent king, the Naga.
A couple of times a year, roughly at either end of the monsoon season, strange fireballs silently rise from the muddy waters of the Mekhong. The Isaan people, with there unique blend of Buddhism, animism and ancestor worship, attribute this to the Naga king of the Mekhong waters. Unable to accept the Isaan explanation, most Farang fortunate enough to be able to attend the festivities (Bung Fai Phayanak, held in October) try to rationalise it as a hoax or some other more believable (for the Farang's western mind) phenomena.
Whatever the explanation is, the Isaan need no further excuse for another festival and it is perhaps better to not try and explain away their belief in the Naga. Simply relax and enjoy what the Isaan do best, celebrate for any reason.
More on the Mekhong Naga legend.
