The festival used to be held in the end of the year – normally in November or December, but after a 2 year hiatus due to passing away of the beloved King the festival came back last year in May – a typical low season period for this seaside resort city. This year the authorities decided to held the festival in May again: it helps attract more visitors to Pattaya which becomes rather quiet during summer months. For spectators smaller crowds mean better view, too.
The festival will take place this weekend, on Friday and Saturday, May 24–25. This time, there are 4 international teams participating: from UK, USA, China and Russia. Thailand will also perform fireworks during the opening cereminy.
The festivities will start at 7.30 pm on Friday, 24, on Beach Road.
At 8 pm Thailand will produce fireworks as a part of the opening ceremony themed 'With Love and Loyalty'.
Russian fireworks show is scheduled to start at 8.15 pm; with China and USA following at 9.35 pm and 9.50 pm respectively.
On the second day, the United Kingdom will be the first to open the evening show at 8 pm sharp. Russian will perform at 8.15 pm again and USA and China – at 9.35 pm and 9.50 pm respectively.
Fireworks will be launched from water in front of Pattaya Beach Central Festival shopping mall and can be observed from the beachfront along Beach road, from several locations on Pratumnak Hill including the helipad and 'Pattaya' sighn; and from the North.
Pattaya, Thailand Hosts International Fireworks Festival May 24–25
News in Asia
Pattaya's annual most colourful festival is almost here. This Friday and Saturdays the night skies over the city will be lightened by elaborate fireworks display brought to Thailand by four countries.