Thousands of local residents and international visitors have gathered in northern Thailand for the 49th annual Chiang Mai Flower Festival, one of the city’s longest-running contemporary events.
The three-day festival (13–15 February) features elaborate floral displays, cultural performances and community activities across the city.
Festival zones including Nong Buak Haad Park, Thapae Gate and Nawarat Bridge have been transformed with vibrant blooms, orchids and tulip gardens, live music, art competitions, and stalls selling local crafts and food.
The highlight, a floral parade along Nawarat Bridge, took place on Valentine’s Day morning, featuring elaborately decorated floats, performers in traditional Lanna dress, and city-wide decorations.
Once the parade ends, the floats are parked at Buak Hat Park in the southwest corner of the Old Town for display, while surrounding streets are closed and converted into a “walking street market” filled with food vendors, entertainment stages, and flower and plant stalls.
Special events are also being held at the Three Kings Monument and the plaza in front of Thapae Gate, hosting music concerts, beauty contests, and regional performances over the festival weekend.
Floral arrangements also adorned the gates of Chiang Mai’s walled Old City, adding colour throughout the area.
The festival, which began in the 1970s, has grown from a small local event to an international attraction while retaining its regional identity, with strong support from districts across Chiang Mai province.
Organisers said the festival combines northern Thai culture, family-friendly activities, and romantic Valentine’s weekend experiences for tourists and residents alike.
Visitors stroll through parks drenched in blooms, and sampled local delicacies or shop for handcrafted souvenirs.
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