NAKHON SAWAN, Thailand – Culture Minister Sabeeda Thaised presided over the opening of the 2026 Tak Fa Bun Salak Phat Cultural Festival at Wat Tak Fa Royal Monastery in Tak Fa District, Nakhon Sawan Province, on May 31. Now in its 31st year, the event attracted many residents, tourists, and representatives from both public and private sectors, demonstrating the community’s dedication to preserving its cultural heritage.
The Bun Salak Phat tradition is an important part of Thailand’s cultural heritage, originating from ancient royal ceremonies and maintained by the people of Tak Fa District. The festival’s main highlight is the country’s longest procession of Salak Phat offerings, featuring participants in traditional Thai textiles that reflect local identity, cultural pride, and community traditions. The Minister stated that the Ministry of Culture is implementing policies to promote the creative economy by turning cultural assets and local identities into economic opportunities. She emphasized that the festival helps position Nakhon Sawan as a leading cultural tourism destination, while preserving traditional customs and encouraging appreciation of Thailand’s cultural heritage.
The event offers visitors the chance to experience local traditions and community wisdom firsthand. The Ministry believes these activities generate employment, create income, and distribute economic benefits to local communities, supporting sustainable development and strengthening Thailand’s cultural soft power. The Ministry of Culture plans to further promote the festival by seeking its inclusion in Thailand’s tourism calendar and encouraging nationwide participation in the annual event. (NNT)
