Bangkok plans huge 2020 countdown

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is working with river-related business associations, ICONSIAM and True Corporation, to organise the largest-ever Thailand national new year countdown event along 1.4 kms of the Chao Phraya River.

Yuthasak Supasorn, TAT governor, said, "By organising such an extraordinary fireworks display, we aim to promote the Chao Phraya River as a thrilling new destination for international visitors.”

TAT is organising multiple events throughout Thailand to support the travel sector and its contribution to the national and regional economies.

Supoj Chaiwatsirikul, managing director of ICONSIAM Co., Ltd., said, "There are many locations from which to observe the display in addition to the ICONSIAM River Park.

“They include the 7th floor of ICONSIAM, as well as the venues of the national countdown partners, such as Charoenkrung Creative District, Lhong 1919, Asiatique The Riverfront, The Mandarin Oriental Bangkok, The Peninsula Bangkok, The Royal Orchid Sheraton, The Millennium Hilton Bangkok, and the Shangri-La Bangkok."

Mr. Chaiwatsirikul said the fireworks use Japanese technology that utilises sticky rice in their manufacture which makes them more sustainable as well as minimises their impact on the environment.

This year's edition of the fireworks display is called the 'Seven Wonders of Blessings' and is comprised of seven 'acts' that have auspicious meanings, embracing Thailand's rich history, its prosperity, religion, monarchy and agricultural bountifulness.