Thailand Launches Sports Tourism Festival in Chanthaburi

Thailand's Sports Authority (SAT) is partnering with Chanthaburi province to host a major sports tourism festival at Central Plaza Chanthaburi from July 24-26, 2026. The SAT Sports Tourism Festival 2026 will feature professional Muay Thai matches, a mini-marathon, and 3×3 basketball competition, along with cheerleading demonstrations. The event aims to stimulate sports tourism and the local economy in line with the Broad-Based Community Development (BCG) model.

Beyond competitions, the festival will include a Sports Entertainment Expo featuring local products, food and beverages, artist performances, tourism promotions, and health and fitness activities for all ages. Officials announced the initiative on July 15 at Chanthaburi Central Plaza, with remarks from Deputy Director of Sports Promotion Surasak Geotjantuk, Deputy Governor Thawatchai Namsamut, and Regional Sports Development Director Panthapree Dabnoen.

Organizers expect the festival to attract both Thai and foreign visitors, boost local spending, and generate sustainable income for businesses and communities. The event reflects Thailand's 20-year national strategy and government policy to distribute tourism beyond major cities and stimulate domestic travel. Chanthaburi's natural resources, cultural heritage, and attractions such as Thung Nae Park, riverside communities, and the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception position it as a quality sports and tourism destination.