If you've got plans to leave Bangkok but don't fancy travelling far, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya is a solid option. It takes just an hour to get there.
Anyone who loves Thai performing arts, khon, folk performances and traditional theatre, needs to pin Chaiwatthanaram Temple in their diary. The historic site hosts Ayutthaya Nava: International Port Under the Royal Blessing, a major year-end event that brings legendary performing arts to the ancient ruins at night, with spectacular lights and sounds that bring the old temple back to life.
The highlight is watching khon, drama, music and various folk performances against the nighttime backdrop of Ayutthaya. You can wander the temple grounds, browse the international ancient market or snap photos of the ruins bathed in coloured lights from every angle. The event runs every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from December through to February 2026, so you can come multiple times and catch different shows.
Here's what's on:
December performances
- December 26 – Lakhon nok, story of Phra Aphai Mani
- December 27 – Khon Ramakien, episode Jong Thanon
- December 28 – Retro ramwong and Thai music
- December 29 – Lakhon phantang, story of Rajadhiraj
- December 30 – International music
- December 31 – New Year's Eve chanting
January 2026 performances
- January 1-2 – Thai music
- January 3 – Children's khon Ramakien and Phra Lo
- January 4 – Thai music
- January 9 – Lakhon nok, story of Sang Thong
- January 10 – Luk thung singing
- January 11 – Ngiew performance, story of Pao Bun Jin
- January 16 – International music
- January 17 – Lam tat performance
- January 18 – Pong lang ensemble
- January 23 – Folk music, kran truem
- January 24 – Mon ethnic performance
- January 25 – Lanna performance
- January 30 – Malay performance
- January 31 – Retro Thai dance
- February 1 – Thai music
The festival runs every Friday, Saturday and Sunday (plus the New Year period) from December through to February 2026, starting at 3pm and finishing at 9.30pm at Chaiwatthanaram Temple, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya.