The Finocchiaro CLP Government has announced the return of the Thailand Grand Festival for 2025, a vibrant cultural celebration set to kick off the Dry season event calendar next week.
The family-friendly festival, to be held on 26 April, will celebrate 'Songkran,' the Thai New Year, and this year's theme, 'Lanna Maha Songkran,' invites locals and visitors to experience the culture of Northern Thailand.
Minister for Major Events, Marie-Clare Boothby, said events such as the Thailand Grand Festival were a great way to celebrate the Northern Territory's multiculturalism while delivering economic and community benefits.
"Thousands of people attend the Thailand Grand Festival each year, which has injected more than $1 million into our economy in previous years," said Ms Boothby.
"The Territory is widely known for its diverse cultures and communities, and this festival is a great opportunity to showcase this while bringing people together to share in the Northern Thailand culture.
"Events like this are a win-win, because they not only enhance our great Top End lifestyle but also support local businesses by drawing in both locals and visitors, driving foot traffic and boosting our local economy.
"This is all part of our government's commitment to making 2025 a year of action, certainty and security."
The festival's program, presented by the NT Thai Association at Civic Park, includes traditional Thai street food, performances, and activities such as traditional fruit carving, Thai cooking workshops, a paw paw salad competition, chilli eating challenge and traditional water games.
Local and interstate fighters will compete for the prestigious Thailand Grand Cup in Muay Thai kickboxing matches, in partnership with Darwin's Man Ho Academy of Martial Arts.
The Thailand Grand Parade will also return, a festival favourite with music, traditional dance, and a ceremonial water blessing.
"With so much on offer from cooking workshops to cultural activities, and of course, the famous water fights, there's something for everyone to enjoy," said Ms Boothby.
"As we continue delivering on our government's commitment to reducing crime, rebuilding the economy, and restoring our lifestyle, we will continue attracting more tourists to the Territory to engage in our great events and enjoy everything we have to offer in our regions."
Event spokesperson Tou Saramat Ruchkaew said: "We are excited to bring the magic of Songkran back to Darwin in an even grander way in 2025."
"This is an incredible opportunity for the community to immerse themselves in Thai culture right at their doorstep and create unforgettable memories," said Tou.
This event is supported by the CLP Government through the Northern Territory Major Events Company.
The Thailand Grand Festival runs from 11am to 10pm on Saturday, 26 April at Civic Park in Darwin City (13 Harry Chan Ave).
To purchase tickets, click here here.
