BANGKOK, Thailand – Culture Minister Sabeeda Thaised has announced a landmark collaboration for Songkran 2026, with 42 embassies worldwide joining celebrations to honor the traditional Thai New Year. This year’s theme, “Once in a Lifetime: Experience Songkran in Thailand,” highlights the festival’s recognition as a UNESCO-listed Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
The Ministry of Culture seeks to establish Songkran as a leading global event, promoting economic growth and national pride. A key aspect of this year’s international cooperation is the production of commemorative videos by 42 diplomatic missions, including those from the United States, China, Japan, France, and Germany. In these videos, diplomats and staff wear traditional Thai attire, silk garments, and floral Songkran shirts to extend well-wishes to the Thai people.
The Minister expressed sincere gratitude to the diplomatic community, emphasizing that their participation reflects the strong and lasting friendship between Thailand and other nations. These creative tributes, blending diverse national identities with Thai traditions, are available to the public on the Ministry of Culture’s official YouTube channel.
In Thailand, the Ministry will host major celebrations in five Signature Cities: Chiang Mai, Khon Kaen, Chonburi, Samut Prakan, and Nakhon Si Thammarat, as well as 13 Must-Visit destinations, including Phuket and Chiang Rai.
The Minister encourages the public to join the “Proud to Wear Thai Attire” campaign by wearing traditional or modern Thai fabrics nationwide throughout April. This initiative aims to showcase Thailand’s cultural richness to international visitors, celebrate Thai culture, and preserve Thailand’s national heritage. (NNT)
