Bangkok Launches Vijit Chao Phraya Festival with 19 Locations and 31 Nights of Free Light Shows

800 drones illuminate Wat Arun alongside laser displays and fireworks along the river, as Thailand targets 1.4 million visitors and THB 8.6 billion in economic activity.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) officially launched the fifth edition of the Vijit Chao Phraya Festival on Friday evening, November 13, 2026, transforming the banks of Bangkok’s Chao Phraya River into an open-air stage for spectacular light shows and cultural performances over 31 nights, through December 13.

Spanning 19 locations between Rama VIII Bridge and Rama III Bridge, alongside a floating light installation, the festival is being held under the theme “Light of Imagination.” The programme features laser displays, fireworks, drone performances and projection mapping on historic buildings.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand expects the festival to attract more than 1.4 million visitors and generate at least THB 8.6 billion in economic activity through spending on accommodation, restaurants, transportation, river cruises and other tourism-related services.

These figures represent official projections rather than confirmed economic results.

TAT confirmed that the light shows are available free of charge every evening from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM, while tourist boat services and restaurants operate under their own pricing arrangements.

Bangkok’s iconic Temple of Dawn, Wat Arun, will host illuminated drone performances featuring 800 drones at 7:50 PM on selected evenings throughout November and December.

Rama VIII Bridge will feature synchronised laser and sound performances six times each evening, alongside fireworks displays on designated dates.

Meanwhile, Wat Kalayanamit will host light installations and traditional Thai cultural performances, while historic building façades and bridges will become canvases for artistic projection mapping.

Through the festival, Thailand aims to expand its after-dark tourism offerings by connecting cultural landmarks with hotels, restaurants, markets and river cruise experiences.

Thai universities are also participating in the development of artistic installations featured in the programme, adding a creative dimension to the historic landmarks lining the Chao Phraya River.

Travellers can enjoy the performances from public viewing areas along the river, including locations near Rama VIII Bridge and Memorial Bridge, choosing their viewing spots according to the scheduled performances.

Organisers have introduced access restrictions at certain locations during the shows for safety reasons, including areas surrounding Wat Arun. Visitors can watch the temple’s illuminated displays from the opposite riverbank.

Al-Rehla recommends using available river transport services and checking the official festival schedule before visiting, as drone performances and fireworks are not held every evening, although the light installations continue throughout the festival.