Thailand Festivals and Events 2010

Date: 12 - 13 September 2009
Venue: On the Chao Phraya River, in front of the Bang Sai Royal Folk Arts and Crafts Centre,
Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya

International boat races have been widely promoted in Asia, Europe, the Americas, Australia and other parts of the world. The races are seen to be important vehicles in promoting cultural exchange and strengthening friendly ties between countries and are actively supported by the participating countries. Boat teams from Thailand have competed in several international boat events since 1985.

Recognising the importance of preserving Thailand's river-based cultural traditions, the Tourism Authority of Thailand initiated the kingdom’s first long-boat race contest in 1986. Since 1988, a series of long-boat race contests have been held on the local and national level. With the growing popularity of the event, in September 1999, the first international boat race was held on the Chao Phraya River near the Rama IX Bridge in Bangkok. Since then, it has become an annual international event drawing the participation of boat teams from around the world.

The international long-boat races have also evolved into an important vehicle for the preservation of Thai culture and traditions and the promotion of tourism to Thailand. There’s more to these boat-races than just the thrill of the race itself. The event is as much a colourful spectacle to experience.

Event:
Enjoy the boat races and activities
Live broadcast via www.tourismthailand.org
International Swan Boat Race (22 paddlers)
Traditional Thai Long Boat Races (30 and 55 paddlers)
Purchase the Thai handicrafts and souvenirs.
Make a big splash with tourists and visitors alike.

Contact:
- Events Planning Division, Tourism Authority of Thailand,
  Tel. : 66 (0) 2250 5500 Ext : 3475-77
- TAT CALL CENTER 1672
- TAT Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Tel : 66 (0) 3524 6076-7