CHON BURI, THAILAND – The world-famous music festival Tomorrowland hits Asia for the first time. Up to 150,000 fans expected, with a massive 6.13 billion baht economic boost.
From December 11 to 13, the area transforms into a giant dance floor. Organisers predict an average of 50,000 people each day.
50,000 music fans per day expected
Only a fraction of those attending come from Thailand. Forecasts show 22,500 Thais – just 15 percent – will dance alongside an overwhelming international crowd.
A whopping 127,500 guests travel from abroad. With an 85 percent share, the festival is dominated by foreign visitors. This mix is set to turn Chon Buri into a pulsating hotspot for electronic dance music.
Billions for the local economy
Direct costs for staging the mega-event are put at 1.1 billion baht. That cash flows straight to local service providers – production firms, stage builders, caterers and event managers all benefit.
But the far bigger chunk comes away from the stages. Extended stays by festivalgoers are expected to generate indirect tourism spending of 5.3 billion baht. Hotels, restaurants, shops and transport firms in the region can look forward to full tills.
Taxman pockets 732 million baht
Alongside businesses, the state coffers get a hefty boost. Organisers estimate tax revenue from the festival at around 732 million baht. The lion’s share comes from direct taxes.
Some 590 million baht comes from VAT on visitor spending. The remaining 142 million baht comes through indirect taxes such as corporate and income tax.
Thai officials check plans in Belgium
Behind the scenes, preparations are in full swing. Tourism Minister Surasak Phancharoenworakul travelled with TAT Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool to Boom, Belgium.
There they met the boss of organiser WEAREONE.world, Bruno Vanwelsenaers. At Tomorrowland headquarters, the top Thai officials checked the current status. For the government, the festival is a flagship project to position Thailand as a top destination for major events.
Tomorrowland’s first major Asia premiere
Tomorrowland celebrates its first major Asia premiere in Chon Buri. Experts see it as a smart move to attract a young, travel-hungry audience.