TCDC Ubon Ratchathani opens, launches ‘Festival Lab’ to boost creative tourism

The Creative Economy Agency (CEA), Ubon Ratchathani Municipality and Ubon Ratchathani University have inaugurated the Thailand Creative & Design Center (TCDC) Ubon Ratchathani, a fresh creative hub designed to link local customs, innovation and enterprise to generate novel prospects for the northeastern city. The establishment took place on 15 August, under the slogan "Pheung Kor Rang, Pheung Sang Mueang" ("Together, shaping and building the city"), and extended a warm welcome to locals, creative experts, entrepreneurs, scholars and tourists eager to learn, explore and cultivate fresh concepts.

According to the CEA, the center is part of their strategy to broaden creative infrastructure in the region and transform local cultural assets into products, services and experiences capable of generating economic value. Kobkarn Wattanavrangkul, a board member of the CEA, emphasized that Ubon Ratchathani's strengths extend beyond its traditions and tourist attractions, encompassing its people, local knowledge, cuisine, handicrafts and narratives.

A central project is the "Festival Lab," which gathers event organizers, designers, entrepreneurs, artists, communities and young individuals to explore innovative ideas for festivals and tourism. This program strives to merge art, technology and modern culture with traditional customs to craft novel festival experiences and assist local events in reaching national and global audiences.

TCDC Ubon Ratchathani comprises a Resource Center, Creative Lab and Gallery, offering resources, exhibition and workshop spaces, as well as venues for creative experimentation and networking. The opening festivities featured a display inspired by Ubon Ratchathani's renowned candle festival, a walking route through Old Town showcasing street art and local businesses, and the Ubon, The Beautiful Paradox exhibition.

The center also showcased 13 products from 13 local businesses via the Isan Value Up Ubon Ratchathani Showcase, encompassing crafts, textiles, food, wellness products, home décor and tourism experiences. TCDC Ubon Ratchathani is accessible from Tuesday to Sunday, between 10:30 and 19:00, and remains closed on Mondays. Admission is free.