Bangkok, 13 November 2026 – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) officially opened Vijit Chao Phraya 2026, beginning 31 nights of light, sound, art and cultural experiences across 19 riverfront locations from Rama VIII Bridge to Rama III Bridge, complemented by a floating light installation on the Chao Phraya.
The opening aboard the Sawasdee Chaophraya Cruise was presided over by Mr. Surasak Phancharoenworakul, Minister of Tourism and Sports, joined by Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor, members of the TAT Board of Directors and TAT executives, senior representatives from government agencies and the private sector, ambassadors and members of the diplomatic corps.
Mr. Surasak said, “The Chao Phraya represents generations of Thai history, culture, architecture and ways of life. Vijit Chao Phraya 2026 brings these assets together with creativity, innovation and technology to create new tourism value and present Thailand’s identity in a contemporary way. This approach creates business opportunities, employment and income for communities along the river, while the participation of universities and young creative talent brings new knowledge and perspectives into the development of tourism experiences.”
The opening cruise travelled through key sections of the event route, giving guests a first-hand view of illuminated landmarks including the Royal Thai Naval Institute and Royal Thai Navy Auditorium Connecting Bridge, Rama VIII Bridge, Wat Arun, Wat Kalayanamit and Memorial Bridge, before continuing south past the Abandoned Building (Soi Lhong 1919), ICONSIAM, The Langham, Custom House, Bangkok, The First Presbyterian Church of Bangkok and Krung Thep Bridge towards Rama III Bridge.
The river journey featured the onboard cultural performance “Vijit Chao Phraya Mahanakhon Mueang Amon Rattanakosin” and live music by Paradise Bangkok. Opening-night highlights also included waterfall-style fireworks at Rama VIII Bridge at 19.30 Hrs., fireworks at Memorial Bridge at 20.45 Hrs., and a further display at Rama III Bridge at 21.20 Hrs.
Ms. Thapanee said, “Vijit Chao Phraya brings the river, historic landmarks, contemporary creativity, Thai culture and riverside communities together as one night-time journey through Bangkok. In its fifth year, the experience extends further along the Chao Phraya, giving visitors more reasons to explore the city after dark. This supports TAT’s Night Economy direction by generating activity for cruises, hotels, restaurants, transport and other businesses, with tourism income reaching communities along both banks.”
The month-long programme is expected to extend visitor activity into the evening and generate demand across cruises, accommodation, dining, transport and community businesses. TAT expects more than 1.4 million visitors and at least 8.6 billion Baht in economic circulation.
Running nightly from 13 November to 13 December, from 18.00–22.00 Hrs., Vijit Chao Phraya 2026 presents “The Light of Imagination” across 19 riverfront locations, with a floating light installation adding another dimension on the river. The programme combines light and sound, projection mapping, lasers, drone formations, fireworks, creative installations and cultural performances.
Admission is free. Visitors can view the displays from riverside locations or book sightseeing cruises, dining cruises and local boat services directly with licensed operators. Further information is available through the Vijit Chao Phraya 2026 Facebook page and www.thailandfestival.org.
