Thailand to host major Pride events in Koh Samui and Bangkok
Thailand is gearing up for two major events to mark the conclusion of Pride Month in 2024. The celebrations will take place on Koh Samui in Surat Thani Province and Bangkok, with Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin set to inaugurate the events.
Deputy Government spokesperson Radklao Inthawong Suwannakiri invited both Thai residents and international visitors to join in the grand finale of Pride Month. The Pride Nation Samui International Pride Festival is being held in Koh Samui from June 24 to 29.
This festival will feature both local and international artists with a vibrant Pride parade and a music festival. The event aims to attract tourists from around the world to experience the beauty of Thailand’s islands like Koh Samui and to foster cultural exchange.
Radklao mentioned that the second event, LOVE PRIDE ♡ PARADE 2024, will take place at the National Stadium in Bangkok on June 30 from 4pm to 6.30pm. This parade is set to be the longest in Asia, spanning over 6 kilometres. It is organised in collaboration with more than 100 public and private sector organisations.
The parade will start at the National Stadium, proceed along Rama I Road, pass through key districts, and conclude at Benjasiri Park. This grand finale aims to position Thailand as a key destination for Pride festivals under the Ignite Thailand vision.
World Pride 2030
The Pride Month celebrations in June have always been about promoting equality. This year’s final events in Koh Samui and Bangkok are expected to significantly boost tourism and pave the way for Thailand to host the Bangkok World Pride in 2030. Radklao emphasised the importance of these events in her statement:
“June is Pride Month, a time to celebrate equality. The grand finale in 2024 will feature two major events on Koh Samui in Surat Thani Province and Bangkok. The prime minister will personally inaugurate the Bangkok event. We invite everyone to join these grand celebrations to pave the way for hosting World Pride in 2030.
“We expect that the Pride Month activities will generate at least 10 billion baht, and the Bangkok parade alone will attract over one million spectators along its 6-kilometre route.”
In Bangkok, the LOVE PRIDE ♡ PARADE 2024 promises to be an unforgettable event. With the involvement of over 100 organisations, the parade will showcase Thailand’s commitment to promoting equality and inclusivity.
The route will pass through some of Bangkok’s most iconic areas, ending at the picturesque Benjasiri Park. This event is expected to draw a massive crowd, further solidifying Bangkok’s reputation as a leading destination for Pride celebrations, reported KhaoSod.