Khon Kaen University Launches Sithan Festival 2025: A Cultural Extravaganza Featuring 5 Nations and Anticipating 700 Million Baht in Economic Impact
Khon Kaen University (KKU) has announced the details of the “Sithan International Festival 2025: Boon Somma Bucha Naga,” which is set to take place from November 3 to 5, 2025, at Bueng Sithan (Sithan Pond). The theme for this year’s festival is “Sithan Navatara Himalayan,” and it aims to showcase cultural integration from five nations over the course of three days.
Press Conference Announcement
The announcement was made during a press conference held on October 22, 2025, featuring key stakeholders including Mr. Kharom Khamphithun, Deputy Governor of Khon Kaen Province; Ms. Thanawan Kasee, Director of the TAT Khon Kaen Office; Mr. Thossapol Wongsalee from the Khon Kaen Provincial Administrative Organization (PAO); and Assoc. Prof. Charnchai Panthongviriyakul, M.D., President of KKU. The press conference attracted considerable attention, with attendance from faculty, students, media representatives, and other interested parties at the Art Gallery, Center for Arts and Culture at KKU.
Significance of the Festival
Mr. Khamphithun highlighted the significance of KKU’s initiative in organizing the festival and its contribution to the preservation and promotion of Thai culture and traditions. The festival aims to elevate the traditional Loy Krathong celebrations into a renowned international event that fosters tourism and economic activity in Khon Kaen. In the previous year, the festival reportedly generated over 701 million baht in local economic activity and attracted more than 300,000 visitors.
Ms. Kasee emphasized the collaborative efforts between KKU, Khon Kaen Province, and various sectors in facilitating the event, noting that it would highlight the synthesis of ancient and modern cultures while enhancing public interest in local traditions.
Festival Theme and Concept
The festival is centered around the concept of “The Journey of Water and Faith,” which symbolizes the cultural importance of the Mekong River as it travels from the Himalayas and supports diverse regional communities and cultures.
Key Features of the Festival
Key features of the Sithan International Festival 2025 are expected to include:
- An 8-meter high, 40-meter wide replica of the Himalayas.
- A ceremonial pavilion dedicated to sacred Buddha relics, showcasing Thai and Bhutanese artistic styles.
- A grand parade featuring the enshrinement of Buddha relics with influences from Tibetan, Bhutanese, and Thai art.
- Special performances such as a contemporary Phi Bak Huad dance and a Krathong float parade competition.
- Various cultural showcases, including the inaugural International Mask and Puppet Festival in Isan.
- Participation from notable guests, including pageant winners representing the Goddess of Krathong myth.
International Participation and Cultural Exchange
The festival is anticipated to attract participants from around the world, promoting cultural exchange and fostering friendships among the five involved countries: Thailand, China, Vietnam, Laos, and Myanmar. Further details can be found on the festival’s Facebook page.
Source: Khon Kaen University
