The 39th Phra Nakhon Khiri – Mueang Phet Festival is expected to attract more than one million visitors this year, with Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul set to preside over the official opening ceremony on 21 February.

Speaking at a preparatory meeting on 16 February at Phetchaburi Provincial Hall, Phetchaburi Governor Pol Lt Col Phopchanok Chalanukroh said the province has set a target of welcoming over one million people to the 10-day event, which runs from 20 February to 1 March 2026.

The meeting, held in the Ton Tan Meeting Room, brought together deputy governors, heads of government agencies, military and police representatives, and other officials to finalise operational plans and security arrangements.

The governor described the Phra Nakhon Khiri – Mueang Phet Festival as the province’s largest and most important annual event, and a source of pride for local residents. The festival is held to honour past Thai monarchs of the Rattanakosin era who made significant contributions to Phetchaburi. It also aims to promote tourism, preserve local traditions and wisdom, and highlight the distinctive stucco craftsmanship known as the Mueang Phet school.

He said comprehensive preparations are required, particularly in traffic management, public safety and visitor services, to ensure the province can accommodate the projected number of attendees. The festival is also expected to provide a boost to the local economy by generating income for businesses and communities across the province.

Cultural highlights at Phra Nakhon Khiri – Mueang Phet Festival 2026

Festivities will begin on 20 February with a royal tribute procession honouring all 10 monarchs of the Rattanakosin era. The procession has been designed to reflect loyalty to the monarchy while showcasing arts and cultural heritage from all eight districts of Phetchaburi.

A large-scale Khon masked dance performance by the Bunditpatanasilpa Institute under the Ministry of Culture will feature more than 120 performers presenting classical Thai theatre. In addition, representatives from the province’s eight districts will take part in mini-concert competitions, providing entertainment throughout the festival period.

This year will also see the introduction of a newly designed fireworks display titled “Rak Khao Wang” (Love Khao Wang). Organisers have reduced the size of the fireworks to limit vibration and protect historic structures on Phra Nakhon Khiri. Specially designed sequences will convey themes of tribute and remembrance.

In a change from previous years, the zone for traditional arts and cultural performances will be relocated to Khao Wang itself, allowing visitors to experience activities against the backdrop of the historic architecture.

The official opening ceremony on 21 February will be presided over by Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, underscoring the national significance the Phra Nakhon Khiri – Mueang Phet Festival has gained over nearly four decades.

Phetchaburi province has invited both Thai and international visitors to attend the festival, wear traditional Thai attire and take part in cultural activities, evening illuminations at Khao Wang and the nightly fireworks displays.