Pattaya, Thailand – Pattaya Central Beach came alive on Friday as Mr. Naris Niramaiwong, Governor of Chonburi Province, officially opened the 15th “Colors of the East EEC” festival. The vibrant event, running under the theme “EEC The Food Runway – From Local Food to Fashion Food,” shows the culinary identity and creative spirit of Thailand’s Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) provinces.
Organized by the Chonburi Provincial Tourism and Sports Office together with Chonburi, Rayong, and Chachoengsao, the festival is a showcase of the best of the eastern region by transforming traditional local ingredients into innovative experiences for modern tourists.
In a viral moment, Governor Naris, along with tourism officials from all three provinces, prepared a massive “EEC Fried Rice” dish using an enormous wok. The spectacle symbolized the strong cooperation and unity among the three EEC provinces. Traditional cultural performances blending music and local food stories added a creative touch to the opening ceremony.
More than 120 stalls line the beach promenade, offering a rich variety of local delicacies and products. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood and authentic Chonburi dishes, processed foods and premium fruits from Rayong, and fresh agricultural produce and goods from Chachoengsao. The entire area has been transformed into a lively seaside night festival.
A new addition this year is the inaugural “EEC Food Runway Contest,” where designers showcase fashion creations inspired by local cuisine on a beachfront runway. The festival also features nightly mini-concerts by popular artists over four evenings, entertainment shows, local wisdom workshops, and Instagram-worthy photo zones.
In line with sustainable practices, organizers are promoting plastic reduction, providing waste separation stations, and encouraging small businesses to expand through online platforms.
The 15th Colors of the East EEC festival runs until Monday, May 4, 2026, along Pattaya Central Beach Road. Entry is free for all visitors and locals and runs from around 5PM to late everyday.
All Photos credit Adam Judd for The Pattaya News
