CHIANG MAI: A vibrant showcase of Thailand’s culinary diversity unfolded in Chiang Mai with the “Food Festival: Big Food, Big Fun,” bringing together traditional fare from the nation’s five regions in a celebration of Thai soft power.
According to Thai News Agency, the event was organized by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) in collaboration with Wongnai Lineman, under the guidance of prominent officials such as Mr. Jakraphol Tangsuthitham, Assistant Minister of the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, and Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, Governor of TAT. Set in the picturesque Chiang Mai Cultural Center, the festival featured a myriad of secret and delectable menus for visitors to explore, alongside performances by renowned artists and singers. The festival, which ran from noon to midnight until December 15th, aimed to solidify Chiang Mai’s status as a premier global tourist destination, celebrated for its rich cultural tapestry in both gastronomy and lifestyle.
Additionally, the festival featured a sacred Lann
a animal as an honorary lineman during the opening ceremony, bringing a unique cultural element to the event. The ceremony was further enlivened by a performance of the Sabatchai drum, captivating attendees before the official commencement of the festival.
Over the course of five days, the festival welcomed more than 60,000 visitors, significantly boosting local tourism and generating over 65 million baht in economic activity for Chiang Mai Province. The event served as a testament to the enduring allure of Thai culture and its ability to draw both domestic and international tourists.