Thailand has launched the major "Thailand Grand Festival 2026" in the heart of Sydney, advancing soft power by highlighting the circular economy and creating global opportunities for Thai culture and business.
On 19 Sep 2026 GMT+7 in Sydney, Australia, Panpree Pahittanukorn, Advisor to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, officially opened the Thailand Grand Festival 2026 at Tumbalong Park, Darling Harbour, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. The event was attended by key figures including Panidol Patchimsawat, Deputy Director-General of the Information Department; Chris Minns, Premier of New South Wales; Anurak Janthiwong, Minister for Trade and Investment of New South Wales; Robert Kok, Sydney City Council member; alongside many Thai and Australian attendees.
Panpree noted that more than 25,000 Thais currently reside in Sydney, and that the "Thai Town" in the Haymarket district is recognized as the world’s second-largest Thai Town.
This event takes place amid a significant diplomatic milestone, as both countries prepare to celebrate the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations next year, following the official visit of Thailand’s Prime Minister Anutin Charnveerakul to Australia to expand cooperation and strengthen grassroots ties.
Panpree also emphasized the longstanding strong relationship between Thailand and Australia, highlighting cultural and soft power dimensions such as Thai cuisine, traditional Thai massage, Muay Thai, music, and film, which have become integral to Australian lifestyles over many generations.
Additionally, the festival promotes the "Creative Economy" by supporting young Thai entrepreneurs and designers entering the global market through concepts like the circular economy and upcycling, showcasing how waste and leftover materials can be transformed into high-value products to support sustainable development and generate economic opportunities and income for local Thai communities.
Panpree expressed gratitude to the New South Wales government, Sydney City Council, the Royal Thai Embassy in Canberra, the Royal Thai Consulate-General in Sydney, volunteers, and all partners for their collaboration in making the festival a success. He officially declared the opening of the Thailand Grand Festival 2026, celebrating Thai-Australian friendship and culture over the two-day event.