Phayao Counting the Seconds: Spectacular Countdown Festival 2026!

Phayao Counting the Seconds: Spectacular Countdown Festival 2026!

On December 30, 2025, Thailand is all about the celebratory countdown preparations for the New Year. One of the main attractions is the “Amazing Thailand Phayao Countdown Flora Fest 2026”, which will be held from December 28th to 31st at the Phukhan Ngam Muang Monument and the picturesque Phayao Lake. Tourism Authority of Thailand Chairwoman Nattariya Thaveewong opened the festival along with other senior officials to add a celebratory touch to the celebrations.

The festival's theme, “Light of Love of Phayao, in Honor of the Mother of the Country,” references Queen Sirikit and honors her contributions to the Thai people. The planned activities include impressive light installations, a Flora Art & Exhibition and a spectacular drone show entitled “Phayao Blooms – The Festival Begins”. The attractions are not only a feast for the senses, but also part of efforts to position Phayao as an attractive tourist destination and boost the local economy. At the same time, the tourism authority plans to use 2025 under the theme “Year of Celebration” to promote domestic travel.

Celebrations all over Thailand

Overall, Thailand will host a nationwide New Year countdown celebration taking place in different regions of the country. In addition to Phayao, there will also be events in Su-ngai Kolok, where cultural diversity and local traditions will be the focus. Su-ngai Kolok celebrations are also scheduled from December 28 to 31 and will take place at Sirindhorn Public Park, where live concerts and cultural performances will entertain visitors.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has emphasized the importance of regional identity and collaboration between the public and private sectors for the success of this event. Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, the TAT Governor, clarified that the mix of tradition and modernity added extra splendor to the celebrations.

A look at the big events in Bangkok and the provinces

In the capital Bangkok, several countdown celebrations attract the crowds. Among other things, the “Amazing Thailand Countdown 2026” will take place at ICONSIAM from December 27th to 31st, with sustainable fireworks and numerous artist performances on the program. Other highlights include the “One Bangkok Countdown Celebration 2026” and the “CentralwOrld Bangkok Countdown 2026” on New Year's Eve, both with spectacular light shows and musical performances.

There are also festive events in various provinces, such as the “Hat Yai New Year 2026”, which features music and cultural performances, and the “Hua Hin Countdown 2026” on the breathtaking beach. Udon also promises entertainment and fireworks with its countdown event.

With all the hustle and bustle, splendor and variety of celebrations balancing tradition and modernity, access to security measures will be ensured by the Royal Thai Police and Tourist Police to ensure the safety of participants. All of this contributes to Thailand welcoming the new year 2026 with open arms.

For more information about the events and their background, visit the following links: MCOT, Laotian Times, Thailand tourism.