Chiang mai: Tourists flocked to check in and witness the first sunrise of 2026. Countdown to the new year 2026 was a lively event across the country. This morning, popular spots for watching the first sunrise of the year were crowded with tourists.
According to Thai News Agency, both Thai and foreign tourists flocked to celebrate and participate in the New Year's Eve countdown event for 2026, organized by the Chiang Mai Municipality at Tha Phae Gate in the heart of Chiang Mai. The roads were temporarily closed to allow tourists to celebrate, resulting in a massive influx of visitors filling Tha Phae Gate and Tha Phae Road to the point where there was no space to walk. At the scheduled time, the countdown to 2026 began, followed by a spectacular fireworks display.
In Pattaya, Chonburi province, tens of thousands of Thai and foreign tourists flocked to the Pattaya Countdown 2026 event on Pattaya Beach, creating a lively atmosphere. The event featured a continuous stream of performances by leading artists, culminating in the countdown to the New Year and a spectacular fireworks display.
The New Year's Eve countdown atmosphere in Koh Samui was lively, with many tourists flocking to entertainment venues along Chaweng Beach. Amidst the music and the sound of the waves, the atmosphere was joyful and festive. At midnight, tourists counted down to the New Year 2026, after which a spectacular display of colorful fireworks illuminated the sky across Koh Samui.
At Mor Hin Khao, Thailand's Stonehenge, in Chaiyaphum province, the province has designated this area as a New Year's Eve destination with light decorations, photo spots, musical performances, and mini-concerts. Importantly, it also aims to stimulate the local economy with numerous stalls selling goods and food, allowing tourists to enjoy food, music, and entertainment to their heart's content. Popular dishes to enjoy in the cool weather amidst the mountain views include grilled items such as sticky rice cakes, grilled corn, hot pizza, and, of course, Thai-style BBQ pork.
The atmosphere of welcoming the first sunrise of 2026 was vibrant at various locations across Thailand, especially at Phu Ruea viewpoint in Loei province. Tourists gathered to witness the first rays of sunlight appearing above the mountain peak. They cheered as they welcomed the sunrise amidst the chilly 11-degree Celsius weather. The orange and red sunrise, along with a sea of mist, created a beautiful scene to welcome another new year.
At Pha Chanadai viewpoint in Ubon Ratchathani province, over 1,000 Thai and foreign tourists gathered to witness the first rays of sunlight, believing it would bring good fortune and a bright, prosperous New Year 2026. The sun rose above the horizon at 6:30 AM amidst a temperature that dropped to 13 degrees Celsius.