The 3rd Cha-am – Phetchaburi Soft Power and Food Festival officially opened on 2 April at the Cha-am beachfront viewpoint, highlighting Phetchaburi’s culinary heritage and cultural identity.
The event, held in Cha-am District, aims to support the development of local agricultural products and goods linked to regional identity by using innovation and technology to drive sustainable economic growth.
Presiding over the opening ceremony was Mrs Wanphen Mangsi, Deputy Governor of Phetchaburi, who was joined by fellow Deputy Governor Mr Pakapat Songwatthayut, Provincial Commercial Officer Ms Jintana Pinsupa, and Mr Thawat Sitthiyanurak, President of the Phetchaburi Chamber of Commerce. The event was also attended by representatives from government agencies, private businesses, and a large number of Thai and international visitors.
In her remarks, Mrs Wanphen emphasised Phetchaburi’s strength in food, art, and culture, particularly its culinary traditions, which led to the province being named a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy. She said the festival provides a platform to promote local entrepreneurs and raise the profile of the province’s soft power and signature products.
As part of the opening day’s activities, guests viewed a fashion show featuring traditional clothing representing Phetchaburi’s cultural heritage. This was followed by a performance of ramwong mueang Phetchaburi, a traditional folk dance known throughout the province.
One of the highlights was a cooking demonstration by the vendor Khanom Krok Narok Taek, known for its coconut-rice pancakes and striking name, which translates to “explosive hell coconut-rice pancakes.”
Throughout the festival, visitors can explore a wide selection of local food and products from across Phetchaburi. Daily promotions include 50-baht cash coupons, selected products on sale for just 1 baht, and prize draws for household appliances with every 300 baht spent. On the final day, a lucky draw will be held with a gold prize on offer.
The event also features nightly entertainment, including performances by local singers and traditional ramwong dance groups from Phetchaburi.
The Cha-am – Phetchaburi Soft Power and Food Festival is open daily from 2 to 6 April, between 4:00 PM and 11:00 PM, at the Cha-am Viewpoint in Cha-am District, Phetchaburi Province.
