Thai Festivals to Proceed with 'Adjusted Tone'
BANGKOK, Oct 29 (TNA) - Thailand's major annual festivals, including Loy Krathong, New Year's Eve, and Songkran, will proceed but require organizers to make "appropriate" tonal and format adjustments, the Minister of Tourism and Sports, Attakorn Sirilatthayakorn, affirmed Tuesday.
The call for appropriate tonal adjustments comes during a national period of mourning following the passing of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother on October 24.
The ministry is not banning the events, but is seeking cooperation from the private sector to ensure suitability, while aiming for minimal disruption to tourism.
The Minister confirmed 2025 countdown and Songkran events will be held. Firework displays are allowed, but on a smaller scale and intensity, with a preference for displays dedicated to the monarchy.
He noted that foreign tourists still expect to experience Thailand's culture, atmosphere, and cuisine.
"If we restrict everything, it will be difficult to move forward with tourism," he concluded.
The Chairman of the Tourism Council of Thailand (TCT), Chai Arunnanonchai, said the industry is hesitant to proceed despite government assurances, as the request to "adjust to an appropriate situation" is too broad.
He noted that conflicting decisions between the government and provincial authorities have led to confusion over what is permissible. The TCT is urgently calling for specific guidelines to allow the private sector to confidently plan activities crucial for year-end economic stimulus.
