Bangkok’s ICONSIAM is not just a marvel along the Chao Phraya River; it’s a bastion of Thai culture, now thrusting the enchanting Loy Krathong Festival onto the global stage. In a spectacle set against the river’s serpentine allure, dubbed ‘The River of Eternal Prosperity,’ ICONSIAM’s 2023 Loy Krathong Festival is a strategic and heartfelt bid to gain UNESCO cultural heritage recognition in 2024.

The festivity transcends borders this year, inviting participation from 16 embassies and seven universities in an international krathong exhibition. Running from November 14 to 27 at ICONLUXE, ICONSIAM, the event melds environmental consciousness with cultural diplomacy, presenting krathongs – traditional floating offerings – crafted from eco-friendly materials, each narrating the lore and landmarks of its origin country.

Supoj Chaiwatsirikul, Managing Director of ICONSIAM Company Limited, articulates this mission with clarity and passion: “As a beacon of Thai heritage, ICONSIAM is dedicated to showcasing our rich traditions to the world. The Loy Krathong Festival is a tapestry of our past, woven into the present, and we are committed to its recognition as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. Our efforts align with ICONSIAM’s ethos, bridging heritage and modernity, and perpetuating the vibrancy of our culture.”

An Impactful Celebration: Environment, Economy, International Relations, and Culture.

At the heart of ICONSIAM’s Loy Krathong celebration lies a quadruple focus: ecological preservation, economic stimulation, international camaraderie, and cultural perpetuation. Chaiwatsirikul emphasizes these pillars, noting the use of environmentally sustainable krathongs, the boost to tourism and local economies, the fostering of international relations through the participation of various embassies, and the cultural significance of continuing this beloved Thai tradition.

Global Showcase Through an International Krathong Exhibition.

The international Krathong exhibition, a collaborative effort with embassies and universities, is an artistic display and a testament to Thailand’s environmental commitment. The krathongs, embodying stories and symbols from various cultures, also spotlight ICONSIAM’s environmental stewardship.

Celebrating Thai Heritage at SOOKSIAM.

In conjunction with Loy Krathong, SOOKSIAM on ICONSIAM’s ground floor, in partnership with critical Thai companies, hosts a retro market from November 18 to 30. This market is a cultural homage to Si Satchanalai, a world heritage city offering a rich tapestry of Thai products, from culinary delights to artisanal crafts.

A Sustainable Approach to Loy Krathong.

ICONSIAM’s commitment to sustainability shines through in its use of eco-friendly krathongs and partnerships with local authorities to ensure the post-event cleanliness of the Chao Phraya River.

The “ICONSIAM Chao Phraya River of Eternal Prosperity” event on November 27 promises an unforgettable evening of cultural performances, traditional music, and a communal celebration of light and prosperity.

For more information, please visit ICONSIAM’s event page.

Written by: Supaporn  Pholrach (Joom)

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