Top Ten Reasons to Attend Bangkok’s First Ever ‘King’s Cup Elephant Boat Race & River Festival’

Bangkok’s “River of Kings”, the mighty Chaopraya River conjures visions of sacred temples, royal palaces and floating markets. Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas adds to this list with the inaugural King’s Cup Elephant Boat Race & River Festival taking place March 29th – 31st 2019 on the banks next to Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort. We’ve listed 10 great reasons to get in on the action and join Bangkok’s social scene for a jam-packed weekend of not to be missed live music, tantalising food and sporting prowess on the water.

1. An opening ceremony with a cultural twist.

Graceful traditional Thai dancers, local Buddhist monks, revered Hindu Brahmin’s and big brass bands will officially open the event on Friday 29th March. This stunning celebration of Thai culture and history reflects the inclusive nature of the weekend and sets the scene for the not to be missed three day festival.

2. Trunk to trunk action on the water.

Thailand’s top paddlers battle it out with international teams from China and the Philippines in three days of elephant themed dragon boat races on the mighty Chao Phraya River. Teams will bravely challenge Thailand’s top paddlers including the Thai Navy Seals will go head to head in a race for victory with the winners taking home Thailand’s inaugural King’s Cup Elephant Boat Race trophy.

3. Everyone can participate in the indoor rowing competitions

Too competitive to remain a sideline spectator for long? In addition to the Asian Indoor Rowing Championships, which is for professional rowers across Asia, the good news is that the indoor rowing competition is open to the public on Friday and everyone is encouraged to participate. The indoor rowing requires no prior experience and all fitness levels are welcome.

4. Thailand’s chart-topping pop stars in concert

Live music will form the backdrop of the weekend with an array of evening open air concerts. Friday night’s line-up features J Jetrin, credited with introducing Thai audiences to rap music and chart topper Atom who is known for his number one hits “Aow” and “Please.” On Saturday evening duo New Jew will belt out their soulful ballads and Singto Numchok plays his personal brand of surf-rock, reggae-pop that has drawn comparisons to the likes of Jack Johnson and Bruno Mars.

5. Bangkok’s finest restaurants pop ups feeds the crowds

A host of Bangkok’s celebrated chefs and renowned restaurants will be serving up their signature dishes at the festival. Expect an array of quintessentially Thai culinary delights from the likes of TV Iron Chefs and revered Bangkok restaurants, wash it down with an indulgent artisan cocktail.

6. It’s all about the ladies on Saturday.

On Saturday, the ladies (and gents) will have an excuse to get all dressed up for a chance to win a trip to the Maldives. The dress theme is Old Siam and there will be several prizes up for grabs! Whether you are going for the old-time glamour in a traditional Old Siam Thai outfit or for a glamorous festival look with a twist – your efforts won’t remain unnoticed by our judges.

7. Save the elephants AND win a luxury holiday

With 100% of ticket sales going to the Golden Triangle Asian Elephant Foundation (GTAEF), who in turn will donate the proceeds to a wide range of elephant related charities, guests will be directly contributing to efforts to improve the welfare of Thailand’s elephants. Plus every ticket purchased gives festival goers a chance to win luxury Anantara hotel stays worldwide.

8. Sip Champers With a Chaopraya River view

Amid the festival grounds champagne and beer tents will be strategically positioned to provide the best vantage point for on the river action and nightly fireworks displays.

9. Families will have just as much fun, if not more

While the kids might not share the same excitement when it comes to beer tents and vintage cars the fireworks and all-weekend fun fair will certainly be something for the little ones to look forward to. Creative painting workshops and interactive displays will help kids to expand their knowledge and appreciation for Thailand’s national animal.

10. Close the weekend on a high (jazzy) note

The closing ceremony will be just as high octane with a vintage car show and live jazz performances. Begin at the vintage car show, admiring the timeless sleek lines and the luster of polished chrome before sitting back with a refreshing drink and relaxing to the sounds of soulful jazz, guaranteed to transport you to a bygone area.