MAKATI CITY — Legazpi Active Park brought a taste of Thailand to the heart of Makati’s central business district during the second Thai Festival Manila held on April 18 and 19, 2026.Organized by the Royal Thai Embassy in partnership with the Makati City Government, MACEA, Barangay San Lorenzo, and the Tourism Authority of Thailand, the two-day event turned the popular lunch spot into a vibrant hub of Thai culture. Thousands of visitors wandered through nearly 40 booths offering authentic street food, traditional crafts, and hands-on activities, all while marking the 77th anniversary of Philippines–Thailand diplomatic ties.
A Weekend of Food, Dance, and Tradition
The festival grounds buzzed with energy as traditional dance and cultural performances took center stage alongside a wide selection of food and beverage stalls presenting familiar Thai flavors to a local audience. Attendees explored a mix of culinary and retail offerings, with many stopping to try Thai dishes or browse products brought in by vendors from Thailand. A dedicated section of the festival highlighted Chut Thai, or traditional Thai dress, with a photo area where guests could try on the attire, adding an interactive cultural element to the experience. In her remarks, Ambassador Makawadee Sumitmor noted that this year's edition builds on the success of its inaugural run, with the timing aligned to Songkran, Thailand's traditional New Year celebration.
Welcoming Remarks from City and Embassy Officials
Makati City Mayor Nancy Binay led the opening of the festival, joined by Ambassador Sumitmor, Department of Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Theresa Dizon-De Vega, and members of the diplomatic corps. The opening featured a ceremonial ribbon-cutting and a cooking demonstration led by the ambassador, the mayor, and a Thai resident chef, who together prepared the iconic Thai papaya salad. Mayor Binay expressed pride in hosting international events that promote unity and global collaboration, emphasizing that Makati has always been a home to diverse cultures and traditions.
Celebrating Songkran in the Heart of Makati
This year's festival centered on Songkran, the Thai New Year, known for its water-based celebrations of renewal and joy. At Legazpi Active Park, the tradition was adapted into interactive activities that drew crowds, especially in the afternoon, offering a safer and more accessible way for the public to engage with Thai culture. Ambassador Sumitmor described Songkran as Thailand's most vibrant celebration, holding significant meaning in Thai society and culture, and expressed hope that the festival would serve as a bridge of friendship between the two nations. The open layout of the park allowed people to move freely between booths and performances, turning the festival into a casual weekend stop for office workers, families, and passersby in the Makati central business district.
A Growing Tradition in Makati's Cultural Calendar
Set in the heart of Makati, the festival offered a more accessible way for the public to engage with Thai culture, bringing together elements of tradition, cuisine, and community in a format that continues to gain traction in the city's cultural calendar. Admission to the event was free, with organizers encouraging everyone to attend and enjoy a colorful and immersive cultural experience in the heart of Makati City. Organizers said they hope the event continues to serve as a platform for cultural exchange, strengthening connections between nations not only at the level of governments but, more importantly, among their people.
