The 38th Phra Nakhon Khiri – Muang Phet Festival officially opened on 21st February with a fireworks display over Khao Wang, marking the start of a ten-day celebration at Phranakhon Khiri Historical Park.
Deputy Minister of Interior, Ms. Zabeeda Thaiseth, presided over the opening ceremony, joined by Phetchaburi Governor Pol. Lt. Col. Phopchanok Chalanukroh, deputy governors, district chiefs from all eight districts, and representatives from both the public and private sectors. The event drew tens of thousands of visitors.
The annual festival, running until 2nd March, is one of Phetchaburi’s most significant cultural events. It honours past monarchs, including King Rama IV, King Rama V, King Rama VI, and King Rama IX, as well as the current monarch, for their contributions to the province. The event also aims to promote cultural heritage, boost the local economy, and attract tourism.
This year’s theme, “Phetchaburi: UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy,” highlights the region’s culinary traditions. Visitors can sample local and ethnic dishes from all eight districts and experience contemporary cuisine from renowned chefs. In addition to food, the festival features cultural and religious tourism activities, historical landmark illuminations, and a nightly fireworks display with more than 3,000 fireworks lighting up the sky.
Key attractions include:
- Traditional Phetchaburi Artisan Crafts: Demonstrations of 14 traditional crafts such as stucco work, shadow puppet carving, wood inlay, paper embossing, glass mosaic decoration, gold-leaf painting, and banana stalk carving.
- Cultural Showcases: Representations of the lifestyles of eight ethnic communities in Phetchaburi.
- DIY Craft Workshops: Hands-on activities featuring Thai handicrafts and Cultural Products of Thailand (CPOT).
- Art Exhibitions and Demonstrations: Displays of contemporary art inspired by Phetchaburi’s cultural heritage.
The festival takes place daily from 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM at Chalerm Phra Kiat Park, with cultural performances held each night. The fireworks display begins at 9:00 PM, offering visitors a striking visual spectacle over Khao Wang.
Governor Phopchanok Chalanukroh stated that the festival provides a comprehensive cultural experience, featuring Phetchaburi’s cuisine, historical explorations of Khao Wang, mini light and sound shows, and chef’s table dining experiences. The exhibition of traditional crafts further highlights the province’s artistic heritage.
Both Thai and international visitors are encouraged to attend the festival, which has become well-regarded for showcasing Phetchaburi’s rich history and culture.
