Tourexpi
Running
from 17 December 2024 to 5 January 2025, between 18:00–22:00,
the festival transforms Bangkok into a mesmerising hub of night-time
tourism, reinforcing the city's status as a World-Class Event Hub.
Aligned
with the government's policy and the National Soft Power Development
Committee's strategy, this event showcases Thailand's cultural
richness while stimulating the local economy and enhancing the country's
reputation as a global Festival Hub. The festival is a highlight of
the Thailand Winter Festivals 2024, themed "7 Wonders of Thailand",
which brings together a variety of cultural, artistic, and festive activities
across the nation.
Minister
of Tourism and Sports Mr. Sorawong Thienthong remarked, "The year-end
is a special time for Thailand, filled with the joy of celebrations and an
abundance of events nationwide. The Bangkok Illumination Festival 2024 beautifully
highlights Thailand's position as a World-Class Event Hub, combining
vibrant artistry and cutting-edge innovation in night-time tourism. This event
not only promises unforgettable moments for visitors but also underscores our
efforts to stimulate economic growth and showcase the country's creative
potential."
TAT
Governor Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool added, "The Bangkok
Illumination Festival 2024 is more than a celebration of light and art; it
represents a vital step in elevating Thailand's reputation as a
global festival hub. By intertwining cultural richness with modern technology,
this event revitalises Bangkok's night-time economy and creates
opportunities for local businesses to thrive. We are confident that this
festival will leave lasting impressions and inspire visitors to discover the
many wonders of Thailand."
Themed
Highlights: 'Moo Deng Takes Over Bangkok'
This
year's festival promises a spectacular experience under the whimsical
theme "Moo Deng Takes Over Bangkok", featuring the
adorable "Nong Moo Deng", a bouncy baby pygmy hippo from Thailand's Khao
Kheow Open Zoo who has become a global social media sensation. As the festival
mascot, Moo Deng will transform Bangkok into a playful, illuminated
wonderland. Visitors are invited to "bounce" through the city's nine
chic landmarks, each filled with unique installations, dazzling light displays,
and an electrifying atmosphere.
Whether
it's dancing alongside DJ Deng, shopping with Madame Deng, or
snapping photos with Dengzilla, this one-of-a-kind experience blends
creativity, fun, and innovation to create a festive atmosphere like no other.
A
Visual Feast Across Three Routes and Nine Landmarks
The
festival offers visitors an enchanting journey through three key routes,
featuring nine uniquely illuminated landmarks across Bangkok:
1. Pathumwan
to Nimibutr Stadium Route
Nimibutr
Stadium: A "DJ Deng" light installation turns the venue into a
dynamic dance hotspot.
One
Siam Skywalk: Inflatable art with the "Madame Deng" character
welcomes shoppers to this vibrant retail district.
Siam
Centre to Central World: Stunning installation art transforms the area into an
Instagram-worthy destination.
2. Hua
Lamphong to Yaowarat Route
Hua Lamphong
Station: Modern light installations and projection mapping showcase the
"Dengzilla" concept.
Phadung
Krung Kasem Canal: A picturesque canal adorned with colourful light displays.
Thai-Chinese
Friendship Road: "Deng's footprints" light patterns guide visitors
along a scenic pathway.
Odeon
Circle: A delightful "Muay Deng" art installation celebrates
Chinese-Thai heritage.
3. Asoke-Sukhumvit
Route
Asoke
BTS Skywalk: Cutting-edge projection mapping and light displays illuminate the
iconic walkway.
Benjasiri
Park: "Deng in the Park" invites visitors to enjoy a cheerful
picnic-like atmosphere amidst glowing lights.
Driving
Tourism and Economic Impact
Ms.
Thapanee Kiatphaibool concluded "The Bangkok Illumination
Festival embodies TAT's commitment to the IGNITE Thailand's Tourism strategy,
which seeks to elevate the country as a regional tourism hub through
world-class events. This festival is a testament to our vision of creating
enriching travel experiences that drive economic sustainability."
The
festival is expected to attract 435,000 visitors, generating an
estimated 1.2 billion Baht in economic activity.
Travel
Tips: Explore via Public Transport
Visitors
are encouraged to explore the Bangkok Illumination Festival 2024 conveniently
by using Bangkok's extensive public transportation network. The nine
illuminated landmarks are easily accessible via the BTS Skytrain, MRT Subway,
and public buses, making it simple to navigate the city's festive routes. For
example, landmarks along the Pathumwan-Nimibutr route can be reached via BTS
stations such as National Stadium and Siam, while the Hua Lamphong-Yaowarat
route connects seamlessly with MRT Hua Lamphong and Wat Mangkon stations.
Similarly, the Asoke-Sukhumvit route is best accessed via BTS Asok or MRT
Sukhumvit stations. Public transport not only reduces travel time but also
contributes to a more sustainable travel experience during this vibrant celebration.
Image Credit: © Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT)
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