The light returns to the river!

Bangkok’s famous river is shining bright again with VIJIT CHAO PHRAYA 2025, one of Thailand’s most beautiful light and art festivals held under the theme ‘Light of Siam, the Mother of the Nation’ 

This year’s event is held in remembrance of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother, who is lovingly known as the Mother of the Nation for her lifelong dedication to Thais. The festival will take place in a respectful and peaceful atmosphere to honor her kindness and dedication to the country. 

A Peaceful Celebration in remembrance of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother

It’s a wonderful opportunity for everyone to experience the beauty of Bangkok’s riverside while paying tribute to Her Majesty. The event is allowing everyone to express their love and gratitude to the Queen Mother. Her royal projects and endless compassion for Thais have inspired generations.

Free Activities for Everyone

Visitors are invited to enjoy free evening light displays and cultural performances along the river, from Rama VIII Bridge to Rama III Bridge. There are free light shows, art displays, and cultural performances along the riverside. Each area has its own theme, telling a story about Thai history, nature, and royal kindness. The whole route will be filled with glowing art and peaceful music, making it a perfect evening walk for both locals and tourists.

Must-See Highlight: Dawn of Siam at Wat Arun

From 9 November - 23 December 2025, Bangkok’s riverfront will come alive both sides of the Chao Phraya River, Bangkok for 44 magical nights, with iconic landmarks illuminated by light displays, laser shows, projection mapping, and Thai cultural performances. 

This event is free-to-attend. Most of the performances can be enjoyed from various riverfront locations daily between 18:00 – 22:00 hrs. For Wat Arun, or also known as the Temple of the Dawn. The light show here is called “Dawn of Siam,” will illuminate the temple’s spires with stunning colors that symbolize hope, compassion, and the beauty of Thai culture.

For your reference, here is location lists where you can join the event. However, please check the date and time for each display before you go, as some locations will host shows primarily on weekends.

Illumination Venues Include:

1. Rama VIII Bridge

2. Area at the Mouth of Khlong Bangkok Noi – Mouth of Khlong Dusit (Siriraj Hospital)

3. Siriraj Bimuksthan Museum

4. Office of the Royal Thai Naval Institute (Royal Thai Navy Headquarters) 5. Nagaraphirom Park

6. Wat Arun Ratchawararam Ratchaworamahawihan (Temple of Dawn)

7. Wichai Prasit Fort

8. Wat Kalayanamitr Woramahawihan

9. Phra Phutthayotfa Bridge (Memorial Bridge)

10. Phra Pok Klao Bridge

11. Abandoned Building (Soi Lhong 1919)

12. Holy Rosary Church (Kalawar)

13. RIVER CITY BANGKOK

14. ICONSIAM

15. Piledriver/Construction Crane on the Waterway (Bangkok Dock Company Limited)

Updated - Firework Performance

The firework performance runs only on 5–7, 13–14, 20–21 December 2025 at 8:45 PM. at the Memorial Bridge under the theme “The Light of Siam, the Mother of the Nation”. 

Source: 

• TAT News: Vijit Chao Phraya 2025
• Official Thailand's festival page
• Official Vijit Chao Phraya 2025 Facebook Page