Khon Kaen University (KKU) is raising the standard of the “Sithan Festival International 2025,” marking its debut as Thailand’s first international culture festival of the Mekong River Basin. Under the concept “Sithan Navathara Himalayan,” the event links the culture of the river basin to the Himalayan mountains. The festival is expected to draw over 300,000 attendees and generate a circulating value of 700 million baht. A special format has been adopted this year to pay tribute and express condolences for Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother through several dignified activities.
Sithan Festival: From Loy Krathong Tradition to International Cultural Event
Associate Professor Niyom Wongpongkham, Vice President for Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy, Khon Kaen University, explained that the “Sithan Festival” originated as the annual Loy Krathong celebration—a significant traditional event. However, the University recognised the event’s potential for development as part of the Creative Economy initiative, leading to its expansion into a major cultural festival for the Northeast region.
The event was renamed the “Boon Somma Bucha Naak” or Sithan Festival, and is held annually around Si Than Lake at Khon Kaen University. It promotes the arts, culture, lifestyle, and belief systems of the community through diverse activities, including parades, cultural performances, community markets, and the ancient rite of Loy Krathong in veneration of the Naga. The festival has grown into a major fixture on Thailand’s tourism calendar, attracting over 300,000 participants annually and generating a cash flow exceeding 700 million baht.
“Sithan Navathara Himalayan”: The Stream of Faith Connecting Five Nations
Associate Professor Niyom further stated that for 2025, Khon Kaen University has elevated the festival to international status under the concept “Sithan Navathara Himalayan.” The theme focuses on linking the culture of the river basin, originating in the Mekong River, to its source in the Himalayan mountains—a hub of vital civilisations in South and Southeast Asia.
The main concept this year is “Rivers, Blood, and Tribes,” which conveys the unity of people in this region through the integration of cultures from five nations: Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar, and India. These nations will jointly present diverse artistic performances, traditional costumes, cuisine, and cultural activities.
Paying Condolences to Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother
Associate Professor Niyom noted that this year’s event holds special significance as it is dedicated to respectfully mourning and honouring the royal grace of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother. The University has adjusted the festival’s format to reflect the atmosphere of profound sorrow, while maintaining cultural vibrancy and communicating the unfailing loyalty of the populace.
The event will feature a “Tribute Parade for the Queen Mother,” where participants, dressed in white, will carry Khan Mak Beng (traditional offerings) and escort the Buddha’s relics to respectfully honour Her Majesty. Furthermore, a Naga sculpture, embellished with a celestial crystal orb (Duang Kaew), has been created to symbolise that “She is the apple of the eye (Kaew Ta Duang Jai) of the people of Khon Kaen.”
In addition, over 30,000 lanterns and krathongs, collaboratively crafted by students, staff, and the community, will be presented as Buddhist offerings. These lanterns will be carefully arranged to form a glowing text display reading, “Offering Condolences to the Mother of the Land,” creating a beautiful and poignant sight during the evening.
Sithan Festival 2025: A Festival of Faith, Culture, and Sustainability
The “Sithan International Festival 2025,” which will take place across three days and three nights (3–5 November 2025), continues to serve as a space of faith, cooperation, and pride for the people of Isan and neighbouring countries. Although light-hearted entertainment has been reduced, the spiritual depth has been increased to ensure the event is honouring and provides spiritual value to every attendee.
Associate Professor Niyom concluded: “The Si Than Festival is not merely a traditional event; it is the power of arts and culture connecting people of diverse ethnic backgrounds. It reflects the true spirit of Isan and symbolises the endless faith upheld by Khon Kaen University.”
Follow the atmosphere of the event at Sithan KKU Festival
News: Benjamaporn Mamook
Photos: Communication Affairs Division / Si Than Festival Facebook
