This year, however, the festivities were thoughtfully adapted to honour the Queen Mother with culture, craftsmanship and candlelight. The overall ambience was made more respectful and contemplative during the mourning period. Fireworks were limited to traditional Sukhothai-style displays, and the Noppamas beauty pageant was cancelled. Visitors were still able to enjoy the nostalgic charm and cultural richness of the festival, experienced through a tone of reverence and remembrance.

Vintage-inspired Thai light installations illuminated the grounds, complemented by zones showcasing traditional handicraft demonstrations and curated local markets featuring rare regional dishes and cherished heritage recipes. From hands-on craft activities to refined performances of classical Thai music and dance — including pieces composed by His Majesty, the King — the festival evolved into more than a celebration; it became a heartfelt tribute. Guests were invited to dress in traditional Thai attire in honour of the occasion, and each evening concluded with a candlelight ceremony dedicated to Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother.

No other place celebrated the Loi Krathong Festival quite like Sukhothai, which made it truly special. With roots dating back over 700 years, this ancient festival honoured the water goddess and carried deep cultural meaning. A distinctive highlight was “Phao Thian Len Fai” — the lighting of candles and fire displays as an act of worship. This tradition had long stood as a symbol of Thai identity and cultural pride.

The event brought together families and communities through traditional crafts and storytelling. Visitors saw intricate krathongs (floating offerings), sky lanterns and even historical recreations from King Ramkhamhaeng’s era — all reflecting the same message of gratitude, unity and release. It all culminated in a magical finale of fireworks, lanterns and candlelit krathongs drifting across the pond — capturing the true essence of Loy Krathong in Sukhothai.

Nanning City in south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region held a cross-border gala to celebrate this year’s Spring Festival.

Themed on “Celebrating the Spring Festival across mountains and seas, Seeking harmonious and happy reunion”, the gala utilized artificial intelligence (AI) technology in music sound effects and background video production, providing the audience with an immersive experience, and adhered closely to the youthful expression of Generation Z, conveying the charm of traditional culture while exuding youthful fashion enthusiasm.

Nearly a hundred Chinese and foreign performers presented a visual and auditory feast showcasing the Chinese temperament, international charm, and youthful spirit.

The gala was divided into four chapters to express the meaning of “new vitality, warmth of home, romance of love, and openness and shared prosperity”, fully demonstrating the charm of traditional Chinese culture with dance, instrumental ensemble, opera dance, and situational drama, etc.

Performers from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) countries endowed the gala with unique warmth and affection. The “BODY GUARD” brought by the popular Thai boy band PERSES sparked a heat atmosphere on site; the joint singing of representative songs of Southeast Asian countries brought unique exotic charm; the Sino-Vietnamese chorus reflected the deep friendship between China and Vietnam, and the open and inclusive attitude of Nanning in building an international metropolis that is open to cooperation with the ASEAN.

The gala also set up sub venues in Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, and Laos to showcase the joyful scenes of people from different regions celebrating the Spring Festival together through unique shots and programs, allowing the audience to experience the festive atmosphere and cultural characteristics of different countries and regions.

A fair featuring intangible cultural heritage was also created outside the gala venue, attracting foreign guests to immerse themselves in intangible cultural heritage and experience the charm of traditional Chinese culture by admiring Spring Festival paintings, making lanterns, painting sugar paintings, etc.

The gala was broadcast on Nanning’s local TV channel NNTV-1 at 20:00 on Monday night. It was also reported and broadcast by 48 media platforms in about 16 countries and regions, with subtitles translated into English, Lao, Indonesian, Vietnamese and Thai.

Representatives from local media outlets, local officials and consular officials from Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar and Malaysia attended the gala.

The St. Regis Kuala Lumpur
A Heritage of Flavors, Crafted for Celebration

The Ritz-Carlton, Langkawi
A Symphony of Festive Traditions at Hai Yan

Sovor the exquisit Salmon Yee Sang and Fried Crab with Rice Cake, Onion, and Ginger

Dine under glittering lanterns and immerse yourself in the festive spirit with Chef Wang’s masterful creations at Hai Yan. The Salmon Yee Sang is a vibrant dish symbolizing prosperity and wealth. Featuring fresh salmon, this delightful creation pays homage to Langkawi’s seaside charm. At the center is a handcrafted snake ornament, representing good fortune in the Year of the Snake.

Another highlight is the Fried Crab with Rice Cake, Onion, and Ginger, a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. The crab symbolizes success, while the rice cake signifies aspirations for a better year ahead. This dish encapsulates abundance and renewal, perfect for sharing moments of joy and unity.

W Kuala Lumpur
Modern Flair Meets Festive Tradition at YEN

Discover the Prosperous Nanyang Vegetarian Yee Sang and Wok-Fried Beetroot Rice with Prawns & Crab Meat

Ring in the Lunar New Year with contemporary interpretations of classic dishes by Chef Tan Kim Weng. The Prosperous Nanyang Vegetarian Yee Sang offers a fresh twist on tradition, featuring crispy abalone mushrooms, sweet strawberries, and tropical jackfruit. Each ingredient adds depth and balance to this vibrant dish, with its lively colors symbolizing prosperity and good fortune.

The Wok-Fried Beetroot Rice with Prawns & Crab Meat is a visually stunning creation that celebrates the festive season with its auspicious red hue, representing good luck. Prawns bring energy and liveliness, while the crab adds a touch of success and achievement to this flavorful offering.

Four Points by Sheraton Kuala Lumpur, City Centre
Taste the Essence of Tradition at Sichuan Kitchen

Indulge in the rich flavors of Prosperity Treasure Pot and Homemade Cured Salmon Yee Sang.

Celebrate reunions with dishes that combine heritage and modern convenience. The Poon Choi Treasure Pot is a centerpiece of unity and togetherness, traditionally enjoyed during reunion dinners. Packed with premium ingredients, it signifies shared abundance for the year ahead. Choose from the Prosperity Treasure Pot, featuring abalone, chicken, and seafood, or the Sichuan Style Fish Head Treasure Pot, each served in a reusable thermal bag for added convenience.

For a festive toss to prosperity, the Homemade Cured Salmon Yee Sang offers house-cured salmon paired with a vibrant medley of vegetables, crispy crackers, and fragrant sauces. This masterpiece promises an abundance of flavors and good fortune.

Join us at Marriott Bonvoy Hotels this Chinese New Year to savor an array of signature dishes and curated experiences to mark this festive season. From heritage recipes to innovative twists, celebrate the joy of reunions and the spirit of abundance with every bite. Whether dining in or celebrating at home, let us make your Chinese New Year truly unforgettable.