The spectacular Pattaya International Fireworks Festival is this weekend, November 29th and 30th, Friday and Saturday.
Here are a few things to know, along with a video:
-In the past few years since Covid this event has basically become the premier event of Pattaya. Traffic is unbelievable and we strongly advise to avoid taking any car into central Pattaya if at all possible.
-Beach Road in its entire length will be shut from 3PM to about 1AM. Once this happens Central Pattaya becomes almost impassable in a car. If you are traveling, especially to the airport or Bangkok etc, and in the affected area, we suggest leaving before they shut the beach.
-Tens of thousands of Bangkok residents will be coming for the festival. Especially on Friday afternoon, traffic to Pattaya will be substantially more difficult than usual. Give yourself extra time if coming to Pattaya from the Bangkok direction.
-There are numerous free parking lots like City Hall, Terminal 21, Big C Extra, etc open for the festival. Be prepared to walk from there though and they will fill up early.
-Hundreds of thousands of people will be on the Pattaya beach for the event. If you want a great spot, get there early. Like, several hours in advance. The shows begin after 7 each night but people will begin claiming their spots as early as noon. Here are the showtimes:
-There are hundreds of delicious food vendors that will be set up from one end of the beach to the other. Plenty of good options but they will be busy. Alcohol is technically banned from the event but not enforced.
-When the fireworks end each night it is, predictably, absolute chaos to get out. Secure your exit early if possible. Be aware of price gouging from motorbike taxis. Even Bolt and Grab will either be swamped or unavailable. This goes for delivery too, if staying home, stock up some food during the event as getting a delivery is almost impossible due to traffic. Baht buses are basically useless due to traffic. Walking is actually one of the fastest ways to go if possible for you.
-It is an absolutely awesome show and we suggest to be near the main stage and Central area to hear the music as it accompanies the fireworks and they work together. But it will be crowded.
-Internet typically struggles especially in Central Pattaya during the event. In prior years this has sometimes gone on for hours. If going with family or a group arrange a meeting point if someone gets lost as you may be unable to send messages on your phone if the internet goes down.
-There are free portable mobile toilets but they are crowded, questionable for many on hygiene, and have long lines. Being near the mall to use their toilets is suggested.
-Bringing a folding chair and setup and some food and drink is ok. Drones, cannabis, alcohol, Kratom, etc are banned….but as mentioned enforcement may vary especially on alcohol.
Enjoy the event and be safe!
