Bangkok (People's Daily) - The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) on February 5 announced the Amazing Thailand Chinese New Year 2026 Festival, a nationwide celebration featuring flagship events in Bangkok and Hat Yai, as well as additional celebrations in Nakhon Sawan and Suphan Buri. The festival commemorates the 51st anniversary of diplomatic relations between Chinaand Thailand.

Photo provided to People's Daily

At the launch event in Bangkok, representatives from the Chinese Embassy in Thailand, TAT members and local authorities demonstrated multi-level cooperation in organizing the festival.

TAT Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool said the festival reflects the long-standing cooperation between Thailand and China in tourism and cultural exchanges and aims to promote shared Thai–Chinese heritage through meaningful travel experiences.

In Bangkok, Yaowarat Road will be illuminated daily from 6 pm to 11 pm, from February 7 to March 1, creating a festive nighttime atmosphere.

The main festival program will be held daily at Siam Paragon from 4 pm to 10 pm, from February 14 to 18, featuring lantern displays, cultural performances and interactive workshops showcasing Thai and Chinese traditions.

In Hat Yai, Songkhla, festivities will take place along Saneha Nusorn Road from February 17 to 20, featuring lion dances, acrobatics and light displays, reinforcing the city's role as a key tourism hub in southern Thailand.

Additional celebrations will take place in Nakhon Sawan from February 10 to 21 and in Suphan Buri from February 17 to 18 to extend tourism benefits nationwide.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand anticipates that during the Chinese New Year travel period from February 13 to 22 this year, Thailand will welcome approximately 1.25 million international visitors, a 10 percent increase from the previous year. Additionally, it forecasts 2.3 million domestic trips, a 3 percent increase. This influx of travelers is projected to generate roughly 42.23 billion baht in tourism revenue, marking a 13 percent rise from the same period last year.