As the world looks for cities capable of delivering scale, creativity, and meaning in major global moments, Bangkok has stepped confidently into the spotlight. New Year’s Eve 2025 marked a turning point, not only for Thailand’s tourism narrative but for Bangkok’s standing as a city now recognised alongside the world’s great countdown destinations.
As the clock turns toward 2026, fireworks bloom above the canals of western Bangkok, illuminating the golden seated Buddha at Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen. Rising 69 metres above the surrounding neighbourhood, the landmark known as BIG BUDDHA provides a striking counterpoint to the city’s modern skyline, a reminder if one were needed, that in Thailand spirituality and celebration are never far apart. Part of the nationwide Amazing Thailand Countdown 2026, the moment captures Bangkok at its most distinctive, reflective and unmistakably alive.
Bangkok welcomed 2026 with a confidence and theatrical flair that placed it firmly a cut above many traditional New Year cities. This year’s celebrations were not only larger and more imaginative, they were also unmistakably global in reach, reinforced by unprecedented international media exposure.
For the first time, CNN selected Bangkok as its Asia-Pacific broadcast hub for New Year’s Eve, transmitting live from ICONSIAM. The decision signalled a significant shift in global perception, positioning Bangkok alongside cities such as New York, Sydney and Dubai as a place where the world gathers to mark the passing of time.
Against this backdrop of international attention, Bangkok’s hotels delivered celebrations of exceptional scale and imagination. Among the standout events was the New Year’s Eve programme at the Hyatt Regency Bangkok Sukhumvit, which embraced the moment with a bold and immersive concept titled The Galactic Wonder.
From arrival, guests were drawn into a carefully choreographed experience. Dramatic cosmic portals, futuristic lighting, and space-inspired visuals
The Market restaurant was transformed into a world of fantasy and escapism, creating a celebratory environment that felt contemporary, playful, and perfectly aligned with Bangkok’s evolving identity.
High above Sukhumvit, the rooftop became the focal point for the countdown, with sweeping city views, live entertainment, and an atmosphere charged with anticipation as midnight approached. The rooftop celebration captured the energy of the city itself, dynamic, youthful, and unmistakably international.
At the heart of the evening’s culinary experience was the hotel’s Market Café, which was completely reimagined as a cosmic dining universe. Floating, jellyfish-like light installations filled the room, suspended above diners and glowing in iridescent tones of blue, violet, and white. Combined with star-like ceiling lighting and atmospheric projections, the effect was distinctly galactic, evoking the sensation of dining within a fantasy space environment rather than a conventional restaurant.
Galactic gastronomy
The buffet reflected the same ambition. Guests enjoyed an extensive international spread highlighted by premium seafood from around the world, including magnificent king crab, refined Japanese sushi and sashimi, and perfectly grilled river prawns.
Despite the scale of the event, quality was paramount an all-inclusive drinks package completed the offering, allowing guests unlimited access to sparkling, red and white wines, beers, soft drinks, and bottled water throughout the night. The generosity of the package encouraged a relaxed, celebratory flow to the evening.
The immersive nature of the event extended beyond décor and dining. Staff embraced the theme fully, dressed in space-inspired suits and metallic, astronaut-style costumes. Guests were also invited to participate, with optional face painting featuring stars, constellations, and galactic motifs, transforming the celebration into a shared theatrical experience rather than a passive event.
While hotel celebrations across the city impressed, it was Bangkok’s global moment that defined the night. CNN’s live coverage from ICONSIAM reached millions worldwide, showcasing a spectacular combination of drone choreography and floral fireworks along the Chao Phraya River.
CNN’s live coverage from ICONSIAM reached millions worldwide
Innovative eco-friendly fireworks made from Thai glutinous rice reduced smoke and emissions, while the programme’s theme, In Eternity Reverence, paid tribute to Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother.
Bangkok’s New Year confidence did not appear overnight. It has been building year by year.
The Amazing Thailand Countdown 2026 turned the river into centre stage, drawing more than one million people over three nights and clocking up over 100 million views worldwide. It was again a reminder that Bangkok is no longer just hosting a countdown, it is producing one, with global reach and unmistakable style.
ICONSIAM, the landmark destination on the Chao Phraya River, has delivered an extraordinary New Year’s countdown 2026. Through a joint venture between Siam Piwat Group, Charoen Pokphand Group (CP), and Magnolia Quality Development Corporation (MQDC), the Amazing Thailand Countdown 2026 firmly placed Thailand on the world countdown map.
The impact went well beyond the fireworks. The celebrations helped Thailand exceed its annual target of 35 million international visitors, injecting an estimated 62 billion baht into the economy. Along the river, hotels and restaurants reported 95 to 100 percent occupancy, boats packed the waterway, and river traffic more than doubled as locals and visitors alike joined the festivities.
For Bangkok, ICONSIAM is now a proving ground for world-class experiences, helping to set the tone for a city that understands how to celebrate on a global stage, with confidence, creativity, and plenty of fun.
As the clock struck midnight and 2026 began, the message was clear. Bangkok is no longer just joining the global New Year party. It has become one of the main events, combining creativity, hospitality, and worldwide attention into a celebration that truly stands out.
Thailand is shining brightly, and the world is watching.