Nakhon Phanom Province, in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, proudly announces the World Illuminated Boat Festival and Nakhon Phanom Red Cross Fair 2025, taking place from September 27 – October 8, 2025 (12 days and nights) along the Mekong Riverside, Sunthorn Vijit Road, and Nakhon Phanom Provincial Hall.
This annual festival, known locally as “Lai Ruea Fai”, is one of Thailand’s most spectacular cultural events, drawing thousands of visitors to witness dazzling illuminated boats, traditional ceremonies, and world-class performances.
Festival Highlights
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September 27, 2025 – The grand Nakhon Phanom Illuminated Boat Carnival, featuring more than 900 performers, celebrities, and artists parading along Sunthorn Vijit Road.
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October 3–6, 2025 – Traditional Thai–Lao Long Boat Races competing for the Royal Trophy.
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October 7, 2025 (End of Buddhist Lent)
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Official Opening Ceremony of the World Illuminated Boat Festival
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Multimedia light & sound show with water curtain and eco-fireworks under the theme “Lights of Faith”
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Sacred Flame Procession and over 10 grand Wax Castle Processions
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Drone Show with more than 300 drones illuminating the night sky
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October 7–8, 2025 – Ancient Illuminated Boat Ceremony and Phra That Phanom Worship Dance at Wat Phra That Phanom Woramahawihan.
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Cultural Activities – Clip contest showcasing Lai Ruea Fai stories, bamboo innovation fair “From Bamboo to Illuminated Boats” with local food, fusion menus, bamboo products, and over 40 community booths, plus live Bamboo Music Performances.
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Daily Entertainment – Red Cross Fun Fair, OTOP products, street food, floral gardens, lantern sculptures, and free nightly Mor Lam concerts by top bands for 12 consecutive days.
Special Attractions
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Royal Tribute Illuminated Boat stretching over 80 meters, along with eco-friendly illuminated boats from China, Laos, and Vietnam every night.
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Illuminated Boat Contest – 12 giant boats from 12 districts competing for the Royal Trophy and over 100,000 THB in prizes.
Festival Theme
This year’s celebration is held under the theme:
“Nakhon Phanom Lai Ruea Fai – Lights of Faith, One and Only in the World.”
The event highlights Nakhon Phanom’s rich cultural heritage while elevating Thailand’s traditional Illuminated Boat Festival to a world-class cultural tourism experience.
