Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul recently presided over the opening of the 38th King Narai the Great Reign Festival at Phra Prang Sam Yot and King Narai's Palace in Lopburi Province.

The event began with a magnificent grand historical procession featuring over 1,500 participants, recreating the glory of King Narai's reign and the prosperity of the Ayutthaya Kingdom.

This year's festival, held from 13–22 February 2026, is themed “Lavothani Identity: Honoring King Narai the Great and the Queen Mother of the Thai People” — paying tribute to King Narai's legacy and the gracious benevolence of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother.

Highlights include historical light-and-sound performances, cultural exhibitions, retro and palace-style markets, folk performances, and the illumination of Lopburi's major historical landmarks. A grand ceremonial dance tribute with approximately 5,000 participants was also performed on 16 February, King Narai's birthday anniversary.

The Prime Minister highlighted that the festival preserves local heritage, promotes tourism, and supports Lopburi's communities and traditional textiles under Thailand's Soft Power strategy — drawing both Thai and international visitors to experience the city's rich history and culture.