January 2026 event calendar
January 2026 begins with vibrant events across Thailand, including lantern and light festivals, music and creative showcases, food tours, marathons, and cultural experiences. From Bangkok and Pattaya to Chiang Mai, Phuket, Khon Kaen, and Chiang Rai, the month offers inspiring ways to welcome the New Year nationwide.
Thailand welcomes 2026 with countdown celebrations anchored by Phayao and Su-ngai Kolok
Thailand is welcoming 2026 with a nationwide programme of countdown celebrations, anchored by flagship events in Phayao and Su-ngai Kolok. Organised by the Tourism Authority of Thailand, the programme is supported by major celebrations across Bangkok and key provincial destinations, reinforcing Thailand’s appeal as a vibrant year-end travel destination.
TAT flags off Malaysia–Thailand caravan signalling restored traveller confidence in Hat Yai
The Tourism Authority of Thailand has flagged off the Malaysia–Thailand caravan in Hat Yai as part of the Smile@Hatyai recovery framework, sending a strong signal of restored traveller confidence after flooding. The cross-border journey from Kuala Lumpur highlights normalised travel conditions, improved connectivity, and Hat Yai’s readiness to welcome visitors once again.
TAT rolls out free Happy Bus under Smile@Hatyai to support city recovery
The Tourism Authority of Thailand has launched the Amazing Hatyai Happy Bus under the Smile@Hatyai recovery framework, providing free urban transport to support post-flood recovery. Operating across key city routes, the initiative strengthens mobility, restores confidence, and supports tourism and local businesses as Hat Yai returns to normal operations.
Vijit Chao Phraya 2025 concludes with strong tourism and economic impact
The Tourism Authority of Thailand has confirmed strong tourism and economic results from Bangkok’s Vijit Chao Phraya 2025 riverside light festival, which concluded on 23 December. The event animated both banks of the Chao Phraya River, attracting over 1.5 million visits and reinforcing Bangkok’s position as a global cultural destination.
Lalisa “LISA” Manobal to star in new Amazing Thailand campaign launching January 2026
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is set to launch a new Amazing Thailand campaign in January 2026 featuring global star Lalisa “LISA” Manobal as Ambassador. Building on the LISA Effect, the campaign aims to inspire travellers to rediscover Thailand’s iconic destinations, cultural diversity, and authentic lifestyle experiences.
Thailand events calendar for Countdown 2026
The Thailand Countdown 2026 Events Calendar showcases nationwide New Year celebrations from late December 2025 to early January 2026. Major countdowns in Bangkok are joined by distinctive regional events across Thailand, featuring fireworks, live performances, cultural festivals, and destination-specific celebrations that highlight local identity while uniting the country in a shared festive moment.
LOT Polish Airlines launches Warsaw–Bangkok flights
LOT Polish Airlines will launch its first direct Warsaw–Bangkok flights from October 2026, marking the first scheduled non-stop service between Poland and Thailand. Welcomed by the Tourism Authority of Thailand, the new year-round route strengthens long-haul connectivity, supports growing Polish travel demand, and enhances Thailand’s accessibility from Central and Eastern Europe.
TAT unveils “Healing Journey Thailand” global campaign ahead of January 2026 launch
The Tourism Authority of Thailand will launch Healing Journey Thailand in January 2026, a new global campaign under Experience Thailand: Celebrity & Lifestyle Stories. Developed with British singer-songwriter Henry Moodie, the campaign positions Thailand as a destination for wellness-led luxury travel, highlighting restorative journeys, cultural depth and high-value experiences for international travellers.
Thailand named Guest Country of Honour at CITM 2025
Thailand has been named Guest Country of Honour at China International Travel Mart 2025 in Haikou, marking 50 years of Thailand–China diplomatic relations. Led by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), the participation highlights a strategic South China market focus, expanded industry engagement, and initiatives to strengthen tourism cooperation and travel connectivity between the two countries.