The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is hosting a series of the “Amazing Food Festival 2024” events to highlight the diversity of Thai food culture and elevate Thailand’s status as a world-class gastronomy tourism destination.
The event is scheduled to be held in Phuket from 5-7 July at Central Phuket, in Chiang Mai from 20-22 July at Central Festival Chiang Mai, and Prachuap Khiri Khan from 10-12 August at Hua Don Beach, Khao Takiab, Hua Hin.
Taking place this weekend, the first in the series is being held at Central Phuket with the “Good Food Good Vibes” theme. The event reiterates a wealth of gastronomic tourism experiences on offer up and down the country, while presenting the region’s outstanding characteristics and food culture.
The event was officially opened by Dr. Phonpoom Vipattipumiprates, Vice Minister of Tourism and Sports, together with Mr. Sophon Suwanrat, Governor of Phuket Province, and Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor.
Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor, said “The event reflects the government’s ‘Ignite Tourism Thailand’ vision which encompasses several approaches to establish Thailand as a tourism hub. Part of the strategies is the five must-do activities, including ‘Must Eat’ that leverages gastronomy tourism as a delightful way for tourists to explore Thailand, thus helping to boost the local economy via culinary tours.”
Throughout three days, the event offers local signature dishes and speciality menus from MICHELIN-awarded restaurants and eateries, famous restaurants, and street food eateries.
The programme includes cooking shows by Stars Chef Thailand Winner Chef Big Phuripat Jaiweerattanakul, Head of Cold Kitchen Hilton Bangkok Grand Asoke, Chef Kao Vayo Nisatchanakan, and many other rising chefs and local chefs from communities like Ban Bang Rong and Bang Tao-Cherng Talay.
In addition, there are music performances by Thai artists such as Chart Suchart, Getsanova, Earth Patravee, Off Pongsak, Tangmo The Voice, and Zani Nipaporn.
Many other activities unique to each event’s location are also available. These include booths selling art and craft products and a Thailand Tourism Awards booth presenting award-winning sustainable businesses.
Through the “Amazing Food Festival 2024” Facebook page, visitors can register for a one-day trip to explore local communities and its significant role in supplying locally sourced ingredients to shops and restaurants in the city.
The event is organised with great emphasis on sustainability. Waste separation stations are provided throughout the event’s venue. Staff are on hand to assist and encourage visitors’ participation in Thailand’s tourism push towards more sustainable tourism.
“The Amazing Food Festival 2024 is expected to attract 50,000 visitors and generate 35 million Baht in revenue at each of the three locations, helping to distribute some 100 million Baht to the Thai economy,” Ms. Thapanee said. (TAT)
