The Chinese New Year 2024 Festival in Thailand commenced with great fervor and joy, marking 49 years of enduring friendship between Thailand and China. The main festivities, centered around Bangkok’s vibrant Chinatown on Yaowarat Road, promise an array of cultural delights and celebratory activities throughout the month of February. This grand celebration is complemented by events taking place in various Thai locales with significant Chinese communities, generously supported by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT).
At the inauguration ceremony held at the Chalermphrakiat Gate, Odeon Circle, Yaowarat Road, Her Excellency Ms. Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol, Thailand’s Minister of Tourism and Sports, alongside Mr. Wu Zhiwu, Minister at the Embassy of The People’s Republic of China in Thailand, officially opened the festival. The captivating illumination display titled the “Tunnel of Golden Dragon,” under the theme “Celebrating the Golden Year,” adorned the streets, embodying the profound friendship between the two nations.
Dignitaries including Ms. Chang Yumeng, Counsellor for Cultural Affairs of the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China to Thailand, and Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor, graced the event with their presence, emphasizing the significance of cultural exchange and mutual respect between Thailand and China.
Prior to the ceremonial inauguration, a press conference organized by TAT unveiled the vibrant tapestry of festivities scheduled across Thailand in celebration of Chinese New Year. Mr. Kitti Chaodee, Secretary to the Minister of Tourism and Sports, highlighted the milestone of 49 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries, underscoring Thailand’s role as a host to one of the most prominent Chinese New Year celebrations outside China. Anticipated tourism figures project a substantial increase in visitors and revenue during the festival period, with special attention to the surge in Chinese arrivals.
Key highlights of the festival include:
- Chinatown Celebration: Running from February 1 to 29, visitors can enjoy the spectacular lantern displays and the mesmerizing “Tunnel of Golden Dragon” at the Chalermphrakiat Gate, Odeon Circle.
- Cultural Exchange: Special performances from Chinese delegations, including showcases from Zhejiang and Quanzhou, will captivate audiences.
- Mapping Projection Show: From February 10 to 12, a captivating storytelling experience at Krungsri Bank on Yaowarat Road will illuminate the history and heritage of the Thai-Chinese community.
- Regional Celebrations: Beyond Bangkok, five distinct locations across Thailand, including Nakhon Sawan, Ratchaburi, Songkhla, Suphan Buri, and Chiang Mai, will host their unique Chinese New Year festivities, supported by TAT.
This year’s Chinese New Year celebration in Thailand promises to be a testament to the enduring bond between the two nations, weaving together cultural richness and shared heritage in a tapestry of joy and friendship.