Traffic chaos and celebrations in Chiang Mai: Countdown to New Year 2026!

Traffic chaos and celebrations in Chiang Mai: Countdown to New Year 2026!

Chiang Mai is preparing for the 2026 New Year celebrations. On December 30th and 31st there are numerous activities on the program that will attract both locals and tourists. To cope with the huge rush on the streets during the popular countdown event, some traffic restrictions have been announced. Loud Chiang Mai News The Nawarat Bridge will be closed from 5:00 p.m., followed by the road in front of Tha Pae Gate from 6:00 p.m. These measures aim to promote pedestrian areas and thus support the local economy and tourism.

From 6:00 p.m., traffic will be diverted towards Tha Pae Gate as the pedestrian zone there will also be closed. Anyone traveling by car should find out in good time about alternative routes provided by local authorities.

Countdown event and activities

The official countdown to the New Year will take place from December 28th to 31st, with the theme “Night of Stars and Blooming Flowers,” according to Mayor Asanee Buranupakorn explained. The celebrations aim to honor the achievements of Queen Sirikit, the “Mother of the Nation”.

Especially on the evenings of December 30th and 31st, Thapae Road between Chang Klan and Thapae Gate will be transformed into a busy pedestrian street, open to visitors from 6:00 p.m. to midnight. Various events and celebrations are also held in the city, including dance parties and concerts.

Unique celebrations in Chiang Mai

The New Year's celebrations offer something for everyone. The Mellowship Celebration on December 30th from 7:00 p.m. to midnight promises a relaxed atmosphere with cocktails and live music. On December 31st, the festivities will take place at various locations, including a grand countdown party at One Nimman and an impressive rooftop celebration at the Sala Lanna Hotel with spectacular fireworks. For those interested in cultural tourism, quiet ceremonies are also planned at Wat Phra That Doi Suthep.

With such a variety of activities, it's hardly surprising that New Year's celebrations in Chiang Mai are becoming increasingly popular. Whether you want to be right in the middle of the action or prefer a quiet, contemplative celebration, everyone will find their place here for a successful start to the new year.

Social initiatives and community support

Apart from the celebrations, there are also important social initiatives that will be launched on December 30th. For example, vaccination against the flu is offered free of charge to people aged 50 and over with social insurance, while younger people have access to the vaccination at a low price. In addition, 210,000 baht was also donated to improve the intensive care units at Suan Dok Hospital on the same day, another sign of community solidarity.

The support doesn't stop there: a blanket fundraiser for needy refugee families in Mae Hong Son is helping to ease the cold. A total of 60 families of Karen refugees and other needy families in the region received help and support.

With a diverse program and social initiatives, Chiang Mai shows that people not only celebrate here, but also work together for a better future. Everyone is welcome to take part in these annual celebrations and welcome the New Year in a city full of life.