On 9 November 2022, Mae Fah Luang University led by the Student Development Affairs Division in collaboration with the Mekong Basin Civilization Museum, the Center for Academic Services, the School of Liberal Arts, MFU Botanical Garden, the Buddhist Art Short Programme, MFU Band, and Thai Traditional Music Club arranged the 2nd ‘MFU Lanna Festival’ to provide an opportunity for Thai and international students to learn Lanna culture (Northern Thai culture) especially Loy Krathong festival. There were various activities that highlighted unique traditions of northern Thailand such as traditional music and dance, traditional costumes, Lanna market and exhibition booth. In each booth, students had the opportunity to make Lanna candle, hang Lanna lantern and their own krathong.
Moreover, students had the opportunity to celebrate the harmony of diversity by joining Tazaungdaing festival (Myanmar) and Loy Kratong festival (Thailand)at the booth “Lighten The Night, Brighten Your Life” of the School of Liberal Arts.
Asst. Prof.Sugul Kritalukvong, Assistant to the President and Acting Head of the Student Development Affairs Division expressed in the opening ceremony that MFU Lanna Festival dedicated the mission of the university to protect and conserve Lanna culture. As MFU is located in Chiang Rai province which was the first capital of the Lanna Thai Kingdom, the university would like to encourage students to immerse themselves in Lanna cultural heritage and local wisdom.
Altogether, this event helped enhance young people’s understanding and sense of cultural appreciation. Moreover, they will feel the need to protect cultural heritage and make sure that it carries on for their children and so on.
