The Prime Minister stimulates the northern economy with a visit to Phrae to open the 'Worship of Choe Hae Pagoda' event, emphasizing Lanna soft power.
On 26 February 2026, Anutin Charnvirakul, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, is scheduled to visit Phrae Province on Friday, 27 February 2026, to preside over the opening of the “Worship of Choe Hae Pagoda Festival and Phrae City Grand Tungs Parade 2026” at Wat Phra That Choe Hae, a royal monastery. The aim is to leverage "cultural capital" as a key driver to generate grassroots income and promote sustainable cultural tourism.
This year's event is set from 22 February to 3 March 2026, featuring a highlight parade of magnificent offerings including a procession of five elephants and parades from eight districts across Phrae. Visitors can participate in the ceremony inviting the revered Phra Maha Upakut, pay respects to the more than 100-year-old Luang Pho Phra Chao Than Jai statue, as well as enjoy contests of auspicious tungs and rare Lanna cultural performances.
The Prime Minister is scheduled to take part in religious ceremonies and meet with local residents to monitor the implementation of tourism promotion policies in the area. He emphasized utilizing Phrae’s strong cultural heritage as a unique attraction for tourists, which not only helps preserve valuable traditions but also creates economic opportunities for local businesses. This aligns with the government’s goal of positioning Thailand as a global destination for cultural tourism.