PHICHIT, Thailand – Minister of Culture Sabeeda Thaised has officially opened the Phichit Long Boat Racing Festival 2026, an event designed to promote Thai soft power, boost local tourism, and stimulate the provincial economy.
The Minister presided over the opening ceremony at Wat Tha Luang in Mueang Phichit District on September 4, 2026, and was welcomed by Deputy Minister of Transport Phattrapong Phattraprasit, Phichit Governor Thaniya Naipinit, and heads of government agencies.
The festival was organized by the province, the Phichit Provincial Administrative Organization, Wat Tha Luang, and related agencies to preserve local cultural heritage and highlight Phichit’s historic connection to its waterways. During the event, the Culture Minister attended an exhibition honoring His Majesty the King, a traditional Thai dress presentation, a light-and-sound show on the festival’s history, and a contemporary musical performance based on the local folktale of Chalawan.
The annual competition for the Royal Trophy from His Majesty the King takes place on the Nan River from September 4 to 6, 2026, with official races starting on September 5. The festival also features performances by local artists and sales of One Tambon One Product items, community goods, and local specialties. (NNT)
