Territory’s favourite Thai Festival returns better than ever

The rich and vibrant culture of Thailand will be celebrated this week as the Thailand Grand Festival gears up for its biggest event ever.

Event organiser, Northern Territory Thai Association, is expecting the 2024 instalment to be the biggest yet with a jam-packed program running from 11am to 10pm at Darwin’s Civic Park on Saturday, 27 April.

President of the Northern Territory Thai Association Saramat (Tou) Ruchkaew said this year the Thailand Grand Festival’s theme is the Boon Bang Fai (Rocket Festival).

“The festival of the northeast of Thailand launches giant, homemade rockets to the heavens, asking for rain and good vibes. Think Burning Man meets space race, Thai-style!” Tou said.

“The program explodes with traditional and contemporary Thai events and activities, and families are invited to learn about Thailand’s rich and engaging culture at the education tents throughout the day, with Thai cultural displays, art exhibits and performances for all to enjoy.

“The Thailand Grand Festival is a huge highlight on our calendar each year, and we cannot wait to put on another memorable event for the community.”

The free family-friendly event will showcase Thai culture and traditions through the contemporary and traditional art of performance, a water blessing ceremony, water fights, Muay Thai, the Grand Parade, and the Thai Cultural Centre craft workshops and demonstrations.

The Man Ho Academy of Martial Arts will co-host the Thailand Grand Cup 2024 where visitors will be able to see some of the region’s best Muay Thai boxers competing on the day.

Foodies can indulge in Darwin’s largest Thai street food market, guaranteed to be packed with tantalising delights.

The spectacular Thailand Grand Parade will be a highlight, with the theme Boon Ban Fai (Rocket festival), and will be followed by a water blessing for good luck for all attendees.

The festival coincides with Songkran, the Thai New Year national holiday that sees people take to the streets of Thailand to battle it out with water pistols.

To find out more head to https://www.facebook.com/thailandgrandfestivalNT/