The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), aligned with the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, extends an open invitation to partake in the 17th World Wai Kru Muay Thai Ceremony, scheduled for 16-17 March 2025 at Ayutthaya Historical Park.
This year’s theme, “Once in a Lifetime: Experience the Wai Kru Muay Thai Ceremony in Thailand,” showcases the event’s global recognition and celebrates the enduring traditions of Muay Thai.
Set in the historic settings of Wat Mahathat and Wat Langkha Khao, the ceremony is a highlight of the Thailand Summer Festivals 2025. It is a key part of the “Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year 2025” campaign, showcasing the soft power of Muay Thai by drawing martial artists and aficionados from across the globe.
The collaboration for this event includes the Ayutthaya province, the Association Institute of Thai Martial Arts, the World Muay Thai Federation, and the Muaythai and Muayboran Sports Association, aiming to enhance cultural understanding and worldwide appreciation of Muay Thai’s rich heritage.
Participants will delve into sacred rituals and vibrant cultural festivities that celebrate Thailand’s martial arts history over the two-day event.
Cultural and Martial Arts Showcases (16-17 March, 15:00-21:00 Hrs., Wat Langkha Khao)
The showcase will feature live demonstrations of four ancient Muay Thai Boran styles: the defensively oriented Muay Chaiya from Southern Thailand, the strong-striking Muay Korat of the Northeast, the quick and agile Muay Tha Sao from the North, and the cunning Muay Lop Buri from Central Thailand.
Attendees can discover traditional Thai crafts like Sak Yant (sacred tattooing), Yantra Drawing (drawing sacred symbols), and Sword Forging (traditional blacksmithing techniques).
The Muay Thai Academy Showcase offers hands-on training with seasoned fighters, while the Exhibition on the 19 Levels of Mongkhon in Muay Thai outlines a fighter’s journey from novice to master.
Additional highlights include cultural and modern performances, an Ancient Thai Market offering local delicacies and handicrafts, and live Muay Thai bouts with both professional and amateur fighters.
Grand Wai Kru Ceremony (17 March, 17:00-21:00 Hrs., Wat Mahathat)
The ceremony will gather thousands of Muay Thai practitioners from both Thailand and overseas to engage in the Wai Kru ritual, a revered tradition of honoring their masters.
Notable participants leading the ceremony include Prajanchai P.K. Saenchai Muay Thai Gym (current Muay Thai Strawweight World Champion), Ferrari Fairtex (2021 Muay Thai Fighter of the Year), Yodkaikaew “Y2K” Fairtex (with over 100 professional bouts), and Saemapetch Fairtex (MTGP Welterweight Champion and ONE Super Series athlete).
The event will culminate in a celebratory banquet, offering networking opportunities for Muay Thai practitioners and enthusiasts from around the world.
The 17th World Wai Kru Muay Thai Ceremony offers an unparalleled opportunity for both Muay Thai practitioners and cultural enthusiasts to immerse themselves in one of Thailand’s most esteemed martial arts traditions amidst the breathtaking historical backdrop of Ayutthaya.
Mrs. Chiravadee Khunsub, TAT Deputy Governor for Tourism Products and Business, stated: “This annual World Wai Kru Muay Thai Ceremony not only reinforces Muay Thai’s significance but also serves as a driver for Experience-Based Tourism, inspiring travellers while boosting the economy through extended stays and higher visitor spending. We expect this year’s event to attract 5,300 attendees, including 1,800 international visitors, generating 158 million Baht in economic impact.”
Ayutthaya’s Vice Governor, Praphan Tribubpha, emphasised the significance of hosting the event in a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stating: “Ayutthaya is a cultural treasure, drawing travellers who seek an authentic experience of Thai history and traditions. The province is fully prepared to welcome over 800 international fighters and thousands of visitors. Security measures have been coordinated with law enforcement agencies to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all attendees. By hosting this ceremony, we aim to showcase Ayutthaya’s Soft Power assets, particularly Muay Thai, while boosting tourism and the local economy.”
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