Vijit Chao Phraya 2025 concludes with strong tourism and economic impact

Bangkok, 24 December 2025 – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) last night marked the conclusion of Vijit Chao Phraya 2025, confirming strong tourism and economic gains from the landmark riverside light festival that animated both banks of the Chao Phraya River throughout Thailand’s year-end peak travel season.

Presented from 9 November to 23 December 2025 under the theme “Light of Siam – Mother of the Land”, the festival paid tribute to Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, The Queen Mother.
It transformed the river into an open-air cultural stage through light installations, illumination, projection mapping, laser effects, drone performances and fireworks across bridges, temples, historic sites and contemporary landmarks, creating a distinctive night-time experience in the heart of Bangkok.

The closing night was witnessed by Mr. Artthakorn Sirilatthayakorn, Minister of Tourism and Sports, with senior government representatives, diplomatic guests and key partners in attendance. Senior executives from TAT, including Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor, were also present. The programme underscored strong national-level support for the event and reinforced its standing as one of Bangkok’s most significant cultural highlights of the year.

Mr. Atthakorn said “The success of Vijit Chao Phraya 2025 reflects the role of major cultural events in stimulating travel demand and strengthening Bangkok’s international appeal. The festival demonstrates how creative programming along the Chao Phraya River can support tourism-led economic growth while enhancing the city’s global image during the high season.”

Based on TAT’s initial assessment, the event attracted more than 1.7 million visits and generated estimated circulation revenue of no less than 5.5 billion Baht, subject to final evaluation. Economic benefits were distributed across river cruise and passenger boat operators, hotels, restaurants, retailers and local communities, with river transport services recording a noticeable increase in usage during the event period.

Ms. Thapanee said “This festival reflects Thailand’s strength in combining culture, creativity and technology to deliver tourism experiences that resonate with international audiences. It has created a strong platform for future editions to showcase Thailand’s Soft Power while encouraging longer stays and sustained visitor spending.”

The 2025 edition featured 15 curated locations along both sides of the river, each designed to reflect the identity of its surrounding area through tailored concepts and advanced light, sound and visual technologies. The extended 45-day format reinforced the Chao Phraya River’s position as a cultural corridor capable of hosting international-standard events accessible to both residents and visitors. All programmes were presented free of charge nightly from 18.00 to 22.00 Hrs. throughout the event period.

Looking ahead, the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, through TAT, anticipates that “Vijit Chao Phraya 2026” will be held from 13 November to 13 December 2026. The next edition is expected to be elevated in scale and presentation, further enhancing the riverside spectacle while serving as an important platform to showcase Thai charm through art, culture, way of life and creative expression. The event is projected to attract both domestic and international visitors, extend length of stay, and continue stimulating tourism expenditure across the sector.