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I-San, the northeastern region of Thailand, is one of the most vibrant regions of the country.
The Amazing I-San Fair highlights the many fascinating aspects of the region’s natural landscape and fabric of life. This tremendous diversity is reflected in the art and culture, ancient traditions and rituals still being diligently observed, indigenous crafts, cuisine, folk music, song and dance, and traditional festivals.
Engaging cultural presentations, live demonstrations, folk performances and exhibits are designed to provide insight into I-San culture and I-San ways. All reflect the folk wisdom and folk beliefs passed on from generation to generation and very much a part of the natural charm of the Northeastern region.
The Amazing I-San Fair 2011 also brings together the best of I-San and offers visitors an opportunity to shop for a diverse range of products and crafts from each of the I-San provinces, all presented under one roof — at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center in Bangkok during January 27-30, 2011. The event is open free of charge for the public daily from 10.00 hrs till 20.00 hrs.
The fair is divided into four main zones — an exhibition zone, seven Amazing I-san zones, a live demonstration zone, and a dedicated area for cultural performances.
The exhibition zone features a full range of I-san products and services, such as, special tour packages, accommodation offers, airlines, local food, and other related services.
THE AMAZING I-SAN ZONES
Each of the seven Amazing I-San zones will highlight a different theme namely:
1) Charm of the Mekong River
2) Destination of Natural Ozone
3) The Guiding Light of Buddhism
4) South I-San Civilization
5) Magnificent World Heritage and Ancient Civilizations
6) Impressive Dinosaur Skeletons and Footprints
7) I-san Boutique (trendy and chill out)
Live demonstrations of I-San crafts are based on indigenous folk wisdom. Observe the sketching, drawing, painting or weaving of native patterns, designs and motifs, some of which are highly ornate, on textile, pottery, earthenware, silver and other materials.
Admire magnificent traditional textiles such mudmee silk, fine prae wa silks woven by the Phu Thai tribal villages in Kalasin province, Hang Karok patterned silk from Buriram province and indigo-dyed textiles from Sakhon Nakhon province.
Other handcrafted items include triangular Khit pillows, pottery from Dan Kwian, the crafting of various traditional I-San musical instruments, basketry (including reed mats), and others.
The traditional festivals of I-San, many of which are featured in the kingdom’s annual calendar of events, reflect various phases in the agricultural season and the rhythm of life in the village communities throughout I-San. These colourful festivals and celebrations are based on traditional folk beliefs. They also reflect the warmth and friendliness and the fun-loving nature of the I-San people.
Cultural presentations and live demonstration presented in this zone will include a variety of folk performances typically performed during traditional festivals. The Bai Sri Su Kwanceremony is performed to welcome honoured guests and celebrate significant events. Holy threads are tied around the wrist of the honoured guest by a village elder.
CHARM OF THE MEKONG RIVER
Destinations:
The provinces of Ubon Ratchathani, Loei, Nong Khai, Nakhon Phanom and Mukdahan
DESTINATION OF NATURAL OZONE
Destinations:
The provinces of Nakhon Ratchasima (Korat), Chaiyaphum, Khon Kaen, Ubon Ratchathani, Mukdahan and Loei
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Khao Yai National Park in Nakhon Ratchasima province |
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Pa Hin Ngam National Park, Phu Langka National Park, and Tat Ton National Park in Chaiyaphum province |
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Kaeng Tana National Park and Pha Taem National Park in Ubon Ratchathani province |
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Phu Wiang National Park, Phu Pha Marn National Park and Phu Faek Forest Park in Khon Kaen province |
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Phu Pha Toeb, Mukdahan National Park in Mukdahan province |
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Phu Kradeung National Park and Phu Ruea National Park in Loei province |
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