What is this Thai Buddhist ceremony?

[Mike Buckley]

This photo is a detail of a float covered in plant parts that was in the Chang Mai (Thailand) Flower Festival parade. I seem to remember reading that the scene being depicted is a traditional ceremony that can only be administered by a monk but I can't find anything about it. I would appreciate it if someone would please remind me of the name of the ceremony and its importance.

[tbob]

I can't read much more into this from a Thai historic viewpoint, however the giving of a cord looped around the wrist is a sign of receiving a blessing for something given. The something can vary from something as simple as respect or a good deed all the way to building a temple. It can also be conferring good luck on the recipient.

The ceremony itself is very common and, in and of itself, probably doesn't mean a great deal. However I suspect this may be some reference to do with the Thai royal household either past or present. Just a guess

[splashy]

Before the big masses came, if you where for some time with Thai people and you were to depart, they would give you a small tiny rope around you wrist.
This was for friendship and as a good luck charm on your travel.

[Mike Buckley]

Thank you to Splashy and Trevor.