Taking place from 20–24 December 2025, this five – day illuminated heritage festival has been re – envisioned for international audiences under TAT’s Signature Event Thailand initiative
BANGKOK, Dec. 16, 2025 — The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is raising the profile of the Sakon Nakhon Christmas Star Parade to make it a globally recognized festival under the Signature Event Thailand initiative. The 2025 edition will be held from 20 to 24 December in Tha Rae Municipality, Sakon Nakhon. It will feature an expanded program, better – told stories, and immersive lighting and drone shows, which are designed to enhance visitors’ experiences and bring sustainable economic benefits to local communities.
Having been held annually for over a century, the Christmas Star Parade is a key cultural tradition in Sakon Nakhon and one of the most unique Christian celebrations in Northeastern Thailand. Inspired by the star that led to the birth of Jesus Christ, the parade has developed into a living representation of spiritual heritage, creative craftsmanship, and a shared community identity.
Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor, stated “The Christmas Star Parade showcases the long – lasting spirit and creativity of the Tha Rae community. By improving its storytelling and visitor experiences, we hope to introduce this remarkable tradition to a wider international audience while ensuring that local communities gain real benefits from tourism. With its strong cultural roots and modern creative charm, the festival has the potential to be on par with Thailand’s most famous cultural events on the global stage.”
For 2025, TAT has incorporated modern creative elements that complement the festival’s spiritual and cultural bases while increasing its international allure. Immersive lighting installations light up important heritage sites, including the Cathedral of St Michael the Archangel and Tha Rae’s century – old stone houses, highlighting the destination’s unique historical features.
Visitors can enjoy a five – day experience through AI – driven photo spots; creative, sustainability – focused workshops; a family – friendly snow experience; and Amazing Thailand–branded illuminated star vehicles. Hands – on DIY activities, such as cupcake decorating, star ornament making, and recycled – material jewelry workshops, encourage active participation and strengthen community involvement and responsible event management.
From 20 to 22 December, and continuing through the daytime program on 23 December, festival activities will be held along the walking street and Martino Pavilion, creating a continuous, community – led celebration that combines culture, heritage, and festive life. On 20 December, activities start at 14.00; on 21, 22, and 23 December, daytime programs begin at 10.00. Visitors can look at local indigo textiles and locally made products, taste regional food, and take heritage walks through the historic Christian community.
During these days, creative shows and performances by local musicians, schools, and youth groups will enliven the area. Evening variety music programs will start at 19.00. A visual highlight on 22 December is the public display of large, illuminated star vehicles along Ratcharoen Road starting at 17.00. The programs from 20 to 23 December will run through the evening and end at 22.30.
On the evening of 23 December, the festival reaches its main highlight. Float registration starts at 15.00, and the floats will form up at the Martino Pavilion from 16.00. At 18.00, the illuminated star procession will start, with elaborately decorated star vehicles parading along the designated route and returning at 20.00. Then, there will be Christmas performances by local schools and community groups, followed by the official opening ceremony at 20.30. The evening program will include Christmas blessings, a shower of festive candies, gift – giving, a sacred nativity drama, presentations for the best – illuminated star floats, variety music performances, and TAT’s special drone light show.
On 24 December, the festival will turn into a more traditional and sacred Christmas Eve observance. The handheld star procession will gather at the Martino Pavilion at 18.00 and leave at 18.30 to go around the Cathedral of St Michael the Archangel before entering the church. The evening will continue with Christmas Mass, followed by a sacred nativity performance by local youth at the Grotto of the Infant Jesus. In line with Christmas Eve tradition, the program will end after the religious services are over.
By positioning the Sakon Nakhon Christmas Star Parade as part of Thailand’s growing collection of culturally unique festivals, TAT aims to increase global awareness of the country’s diverse cultural landscape. This effort builds on the international recognition of “” as a UNESCO – inscribed cultural heritage and the growing global popularity of “Loi Krathong” as one of Asia’s most fascinating light festivals, further demonstrating Thailand’s commitment to sharing culturally rich, community – based experiences with the world in a meaningful and memorable way.
SOURCE Tourism Authority of Thailand