On January 18, 2024, the city of Udon Thani in northeastern Thailand celebrated its 121st founding anniversary. The festivities were grand and have become one of the region’s most vibrant traditions. While the claim of a “new world record” requires clarification, the event gathered tens of thousands and received widespread public attention.
Mass Dance at the Founder’s Monument
The centerpiece was a mass dance performance on Thahan Road in front of the statue of His Royal Highness Prince Prachaksinlapakhom, the city’s founder. Organizers aimed to set a Guinness World Record for the largest mass dance.
Over 26,000 people participated, including:
- 5,515 officially registered participants, whose data was submitted to Guinness World Records
- More than 21,000 citizens who joined spontaneously
As of March 2025, the official record has not yet been confirmed by Guinness, but the event became a powerful symbol of unity and civic pride.
City Day Tradition
Udon Thani was officially established on January 18, 1903, and this date is now celebrated annually. Each year, the city hosts:
- A solemn wreath-laying ceremony at the prince’s monument
- Awarding of 121 outstanding citizens (in honor of the 121st anniversary)
- Cultural performances, street food festivals, and charity fairs
International Air & Bike Fest 2024
As part of the celebrations, the large-scale International Air & Bike Fest took place at Udon Thani International Airport, attracting over 50,000 visitors.
Highlights included:
- Air show with over 30 aircraft — from propellers to aerobatic displays
- Paragliding and skydiving for enthusiasts
- Bike trial shows and races for pros and amateurs
- “Miss Air Show” beauty pageant — a popular tradition blending fashion and aviation
- Drones and e-mobility exhibition
Regional Significance
The celebrations play a vital role in Udon Thani’s development:
- Strengthen civic identity and patriotism
- Boost tourism and local economy
- Attract investment and media attention
- Support youth and cultural initiatives
Relevance in 2025
As of 2025, City Day in Udon Thani is a key event in the Isan region. The 2024 festival was the largest in history. Plans include:
- Formal submission to Guinness World Records
- Expanding the International Air & Bike Fest with international pilots
- Improving tourist infrastructure
Conclusion
While the 2024 dance record is not yet officially recognized, the mass dance in Udon Thani became a symbol of national unity. The 121st city anniversary demonstrated how tradition, innovation, and hometown pride can bring tens of thousands together. In 2025, Udon Thani continues to strengthen its role as the cultural and tourism capital of Isan — not just through festivals, but through infrastructure development and international outreach.
Sources:
— Udon Thani City Administration: «City Anniversary Report 2024»
— Ministry of Tourism and Sports, Thailand: «Isan Tourism Development»
— Bangkok Post: «Udon Thani’s Dance for a Record», January 2024
— The Nation: «How Air & Bike Fest Took Over Northeast Thailand»
— Guinness World Records: Official Submissions Portal
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