With Halloween less than a week away, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is hosting the “Thailand Goosebumps Festival 2024: Goosebump Market” in Bangkok, starting today and running until next Thursday.
The festival is being held at the Makkasan Factory of the State Railway of Thailand (SRT).
Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong said the festival is part of Thailand’s effort to invigorate tourism during the low season.
“The Goosebumps Festival focuses on cultural heritage and belief-based tourism, to boost the economy while offering thrilling experiences,” he said.
Similar festivals have been organised in Chiang Mai and Ayutthaya, with each attracting nearly 200,000 visitors and generating over Bt500 million in combined revenue, according to a TAT press release.
File photo: Goosebump festival in Ayutthaya
File photo: Goosebump festival in Chiang Mai
The Bangkok festival will showcase more than 80 local vendors spread across a historic area spanning 20,000 square meters, creating an eerie atmosphere that embodies Thailand’s rich cultural beliefs.
TAT Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool said TAT expects the ‘Goosebumps Festival’ to set a new trend for tourism in the country, attracting faith-based tourists and stimulating spending.
The event is expected to generate over Bt300 million for local businesses, shops and communities in and around the event area, she added.
SRT Governor Weerasak Amrapala said the festival provides an excellent opportunity to promote and raise awareness of the historic Makkasan Factory.
“It also serves as a pilot initiative to utilise the space for tourism-related activities,” he added.
According to SRT, the Makkasan factory was once the largest railway-related factory in ASEAN. Construction began in 1907 and it officially opened in June 1910.
The factory covers nearly 70 hectares and is surrounded by red brick walls. It features repair shops and production facilities for various railway components.
The Bangkok festival will be open daily from 4pm to 11pm, offering a variety of attractions, including a shopping zone for amulets and accessories, a dining area with spooky-themed food and entertainment options such as traditional funfairs and fortune-telling.
Admission to the market is free and there will be a costume contest on the last day.
