Sakon Nakhon Rajabhat University, in collaboration with Sakon Nakhon Province, Sakon Nakhon Municipality, Sakon Nakhon Provincial Administrative Organization, the Tourism Authority of Thailand, government agencies, and private sectors, organized the 2023 Wax Castle Festival and Longboat Racing event under the theme “Explore Sakon’s Wax Castles, Discover Artistic and Cultural Landmarks”. The event took place from October 23-29, 2023, at multiple venues, including the Sakon Nakhon Provincial Government Center, King Rama V Monument Square, Phra That Choeng Chum Worawihan Temple, and Somdet Phra Srinagarindra Park.
The event featured a variety of cultural and artistic activities, including traditional and contemporary wax castle displays, homage to the sacred relics and monuments of Sakon Nakhon, longboat races competing for the royal trophy of Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, and numerous other attractions.
The opening ceremony, held on October 25, 2023, was presided over by Mr. Chanon Wasiksiri, Deputy Governor of Sakon Nakhon, acting on behalf of the Governor of Sakon Nakhon. Joining the ceremony were Asst. Prof. Chakrit Chanchitpreecha, Acting President of Sakon Nakhon Rajabhat University, university executives, and heads of local government agencies.
The highlight of the opening ceremony was a cultural performance combining local arts with light, sound, and multimedia titled “Home Hit Hoy: Faith, Devotion, and the Great Buddhist Tribute of Wax Castles.” This performance was made possible through collaboration among university networks, educational institutions, youth groups, and various public and private cultural organizations.
The event aimed to foster collaboration, creativity, and participation in preserving and promoting the rich traditions of Sakon Nakhon. By narrating the beliefs and faith surrounding wax castle offerings from the past to the present, it served as a Soft Power initiative, empowering young people to sustain, innovate, and expand this unique cultural heritage, while also promoting this significant local festival.
