In short
- Dates: 22–27 October 2026, on the Mekong riverfront at Nakhon Phanom.
- TAT's 'Amazing Mekong by Amazing Thailand' programme adds its own lit boat and 800 drones.
- Also planned: lighting along the riverbank, Isan music and dance, craft workshops.
- No visa, fee or transport rule changes.
What to do
- 1Time your Isan leg around 22–27 October 2026 if you want to see the procession.
- 2Check the daily programme and viewing spots with TAT or a local operator.
- 3Reserve accommodation in Nakhon Phanom before those dates.
What happens, and when?
The procession takes place along the Mekong riverfront in Nakhon Phanom, in Thailand's north-east, over six days from 22 to 27 October 2026. According to TAT, this year's edition is being widened under its 'Amazing Mekong by Amazing Thailand' programme: a lit boat from TAT itself, 800 drones above the river, illumination on the bank, music and dance from the region, and craft sessions.
- Dates: 22–27 October 2026
- Place: Mekong riverfront, Nakhon Phanom
- Announced by TAT: lit boats, 800 drones, riverbank lighting, Isan performances, workshops
Who is it for?
Travellers crossing Isan during those six days, and above all anyone staying in or near Nakhon Phanom. TAT says the aim is to stretch visits over a longer period and to draw people to the riverfront in the evening. Our Isan guide shows where Nakhon Phanom sits on a north-east route, and when to go covers October conditions region by region.
What does not change?
No visa rule, entry fee or transport service changes because of the procession. Ordinary arrangements for the north-east apply; things to do lists sites in the region, and where to go in Thailand helps fit Nakhon Phanom into a longer trip.
Travelling soon? Plan around it
Build a day-by-day Thailand route that keeps flexible days where the weather and transport are uncertain.
Sources
We cross-check each story against official pages and several media, and rewrite it in our own words for travellers.
