Sukhothai's Sawankhalok District Unveils 'Old Town, New Feeling' Cultural Festival to Boost Tourism and Local Economy

Key summary

The district administration of Sawankhalok in Sukhothai province officially launched the event titled 'Sawankhalok: Old Town, New Feeling' (SWK OLD TOWN, NEW FEELING) from October 15 to 19, 2026. The opening ceremony took place at the Sawankhalok District Office and the historic old town area, attended by Mr. Kolsol Pattama, Advisor to the Minister at the Prime Minister's Office; Mr. Thitinun Singha, Inspector of the Prime Minister's Office for Inspection Region 17; Mr. Somjet Limpaporn, Member of Parliament for Sukhothai Province District 4; and Mr. Komon Chalae, District Administrator of Sawankhalok. The five-day festival aims to promote cultural tourism, stimulate the local economy, and present a new perspective on the historic town rich in community stories and identity. Under the concept 'Old Town, New Feeling,' the event leverages Sawankhalok's heritage, including its old town history, commercial districts, Thai-Chinese community lifestyles, arts, culture, and local wisdom, by integrating them with contemporary creative activities. The old town area was decorated with lights and creative art installations, featuring photo spots reflecting the town's identity and a 'STORY BOX' area narrating the city's history through significant landmarks and community memories, such as the Sawankhalok Railway Station, an old wooden police station, the Lower Market area, and the cultural tradition of lion dancing. Visitors could participate in Art Therapy Workshops to create art and crafts, collect stamps at key check-in points for a chance to win special souvenirs, and explore local food markets, craft goods, and products from local entrepreneurs. A major highlight was the performance of Thai-Chinese cultural arts, specifically lion dancing, a long-standing community heritage, accompanied by music performances and mini-concerts by artists including Gaem Suphisara, Sincharoen Brothers, Taeng Sakdith, Pholphol, and Rial throughout the five days. The official opening ceremony was scheduled for October 16, 2026, at 19:00 hours, featuring a symbolic performance and a lion unveiling ceremony to reflect Thai-Chinese identity and bring auspiciousness to the event's start. The festival emphasized community participation, business opportunities for entrepreneurs, and sustainable economic value derived from cultural assets. Although the event concludes on October 19, 2026, the street art remains as a permanent landmark for visitors to explore anytime.