PATTAYA, Chonburi, August 28th, 2026
The fourth Pattaya International Film Festival opened Friday night at Colosseum Show Pattaya, drawing a packed red-carpet crowd of Thai and international filmmakers, actors, directors, producers and entertainment figures.
The festival, held under the theme “The Cinematic Wave,” is part of Pattaya’s push to become a UNESCO Creative City of Film. Organizers say the nine-day program, running Aug. 22–30, is meant to raise public awareness, involve communities and young people, and strengthen the city’s film, tourism and creative-economy profile.
Miss Ranee Ittharat, Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Culture, presided over the opening on behalf of Culture Minister Miss Sabida Thai-seth. Pattaya Mayor Mr. Poramese Ngamphichet delivered welcome remarks. Chonburi Deputy Governor Mr. Phongthasit Pitchanan spoke to local tourist attractions. Also present were Chonburi Provincial Culture Officer Miss Khanueng Khailuenam, Director of the Cultural Economy Division Mr. Narathon Pandi, senior officials, and film-industry guests from Thailand and abroad.
Festival activities include free screenings, talks and workshops, a “Director’s Secrets” series, film exhibitions, production demonstrations, outdoor cinema and a seaside creative market intended to link movies with the city’s streets, beaches and everyday life.
The evening’s centerpiece was an awards ceremony honoring 70 on-screen and behind-the-scenes contributions. Organizers described the honors as a showcase of the range and strength of Thai filmmaking.
Officials said the festival is a tool to use cinema to drive the city, connect culture with tourism and the creative economy, and open opportunities for film professionals as Pattaya seeks national and international recognition as a film city.
News: Miss Nutcha Traiphiphat; Photos: Mr. Somprasong Photphan, Mr. Thanapong Unmak, Miss Chinanang Chumchuea; Public Relations Section, Directorate, Office of Tourism and Sports
