BANGKOK; Bangkok’s Chao Phraya River will be transformed into a month-long night-time spectacle from November 13 to December 13 as the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) prepares to stage Vijit Chao Phraya 2026 across 13 riverside locations.
TAT Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool said the fifth edition of the festival would run for 31 days under the theme “Light of Imagination”, stretching along both banks of the river between Rama III Bridge and Rama VIII Bridge.
The event is intended to stimulate year-end travel, strengthen Bangkok’s night-time economy and attract both Thai and international visitors during the high season.
Vijit Chao Phraya 2026 will combine multimedia technology with Bangkok’s riverside heritage through light and sound shows, projection mapping, drone formations, fireworks and cultural performances.
The displays will be designed around the character of the Chao Phraya River and the landmarks along its banks, creating a series of night-time tourism experiences.
This year’s programme will cover 13 locations, using light, sound and multimedia to combine cultural identity with contemporary technology.
Key sites will include Rama VIII Bridge, Wat Arun Ratchawararam Ratchawaramahawihan, Wichai Prasit Fort, Memorial Bridge, Phra Pok Klao Bridge and Krung Thep Bridge, along with other major riverside locations.
Flagship event for year-end tourism
Thapanee described Vijit Chao Phraya as one of TAT’s flagship events for the year-end high season and an important tool for expanding the night-time economy.
The festival is designed to give visitors a different perspective on Bangkok by bringing together its culture, way of life and modern cityscape in a single riverside experience.
TAT expects the event to generate spending for river cruise operators, hotels, restaurants and local communities along both sides of the Chao Phraya.
The previous edition also generated benefits for riverside tourism businesses and communities, according to TAT, which has positioned the festival as a platform combining culture, creativity and technology.
Preparations involve cooperation between government agencies, private businesses and educational institutions.
Among the participating agencies are the Metropolitan Police Bureau, Tourist Police Bureau, Marine Police Division, Marine Department and Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, together with the Thai Boats Association, riverside businesses and academic institutions.
The partners are coordinating on venue management, visitor convenience and security standards ahead of the month-long event.
TAT said the festival would also support Thailand’s ambition to strengthen its position as a global events hub, using large-scale events to attract visitors while spreading tourism income through surrounding businesses and communities.
Vijit Chao Phraya has become one of Bangkok’s major annual riverside events, using illuminated landmarks and creative technology to draw visitors to the Chao Phraya after dark and stimulate spending beyond conventional daytime tourism. The Nation/ANN
