The Government has launched Thailand Winter Festivals, aimed at stimulating the country’s economy and attracting more international tourist arrivals, as well as showing Thailand’s potential to become a world festival hub.

Prime Minister and Finance Minister Srettha Thavisin, as Chairperson of the National Soft Power Strategy Committee, presided over the opening ceremony of Thailand Winter Festivals on 10 November 2023 at Government House.

Thailand Winter Festivals comprise two major events – the Thailand Winter Festival and the Colorful Bangkok Winter Festival 2023 – with more than 3,000 festivals, to be held across the country in November and December this year. There will be diverse activities, such as arts, music, sports, cultural shows, light and sound presentation, food fairs, and local traditions.

The Prime Minister stated that the Government has laid foundations to cope with the growth of the country’s “soft power” industry, and has also created networks to develop Thailand as a “festival country.” For instance, a new airport on the Andaman coast is being constructed, and the visa-free program has been implemented to encourage tourists from target countries to visit Thailand. 

Thailand Winter Festivals also aim to upgrade the country’s major festivals to the global level, in accordance with the Government’s policy of promoting soft power through the use of cultural capital and the concept of creative economy.

The 3,000 festivals will take place during the two periods of celebrations. One is Loy Krathong Festival in November, with Sukhothai province as the focal point of celebrations. The other is the Christmas-New Year festive season, consisting of many activities, such as New Year countdowns. 

According to Minister of Tourism and Sports Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol, the Tourism Authority of Thailand will organize five major events in the Thailand Winter Festival. They include Loy Krathong Festival 2023, Amazing Thailand Marathon Bangkok 2023, Amazing Thailand Passport Privileges, Vijit Chao Phraya 2023, and Amazing Thailand Countdown 2024.