Thailand Festivals & Events

SEPTEMBER 13 - 14, 2008
On the Chao Phraya River
At the Bang Sai Royal Folk Arts and Crafts Centre,
Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya
Admission is free.

20TH THAILAND INTERNATIONAL SWAN BOAT RACES
AND LONG BOAT RACE CHAMPIONSHIP THAILAND

International boat races have been widely promoted in Asia, Europe, the Americas, Australia and other parts of the world. The races are seen to be important vehicles in promoting cultural exchange and strengthening friendly ties between countries and are actively supported by the participating countries. Boat teams from Thailand have competed in several international boat events since 1985.

Recognising the importance of preserving Thailand's river-based cultural traditions, the Tourism Authority of Thailand initiated the kingdom’s first long-boat race contest in 1986. Since 1988, a series of long-boat race contests have been held on the local and national level. With the growing popularity of the event, in September 1999, the first international boat race was held on the Chao Phraya River near the Rama IX Bridge in Bangkok. Since then, it has become an annual international event drawing the participation of boat teams from around the world.

The international long-boat races have also evolved into an important vehicle for the preservation of Thai culture and traditions and the promotion of tourism to Thailand. There’s more to these boat-races than just the thrill of the race itself. The event is as much a colourful spectacle to experience.

Contact information:
TAT Tourism Information Call Centre
Please dial 1672

TAT Central Region Office - Region 6
Tel: +66 (0) 3524 6076 to 7
Fax: +66 (0) 3524 6078
E-mail: tatyuty@tat.or.th

Bang Sai Royal Folk Arts and Crafts Centre in Ayutthaya
Tel: +66 (0) 3536 6091

Source: TAT