Thai Next 2026: When the Seeds Bloom
One of New York City’s Largest Multidisciplinary Thai Arts Fairs Returns for Its Most Ambitious Edition Yet
Presented by the Royal Thai Consulate General in New York and Thai Theatre Foundation US.
NEW YORK, NY — The Royal Thai Consulate General in New York, in partnership with Thai Theatre Foundation, proudly presents “Thai Next 2026: When the Seeds Bloom”, one of NYC’s largest multidisciplinary Thai arts fairs to be held on Sunday, May 17, 2026, at The Foundry LIC, 42-38 9th St, Long Island City, New York. Public admission hours run from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM, followed by an Evening Reception from 6:30 to 8:30 PM (Invitation Only).
“Thai Next 2026 continues its own objectives, and this year will highlight a new perspective on Thai arts and culture on the global stage, while strengthening people-to-people relations between Thailand and the United States,” said Somjai Taphaopong, Consul General of Thailand in New York.
“The art fair this year is also a vital platform for Thai artists in New York and beyond,” said Keng S. Meateanuwat, the Executive Director of Thai Theatre Foundation US. “This year’s theme, When the Seeds Bloom, reflects a moment of growth, visibility, and connection across our community.”
Thai Next 2026 features 46 Thai and Thai-affiliated artists and their collaborators across performance, music, visual art, photography, fashion, film, and more. Guests will enjoy a wide variety of Thai food and merchandise from over 30 vendors. With an expected audience of 800 visitors, this year’s edition marks the most ambitious Thai Next to date.
About the Event
Program from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM features:
• Live performances including music, vocals, piano, and DJ sets
• Outdoor market featuring Thai food, fashion, and artisan goods
• Visual art, photography, film, music, and mixed media
• Community activations throughout the day
The Evening Reception will be held from 6:30 to 8:30 PM, expected to bring together approximately 200 members of the press, diplomats, and arts leaders for an intimate gathering. The reception will open with welcome remarks by Ms. Somjai Taphaopong, Consul General of Thailand in New York, followed by Keng S. Meateanuwat, the Executive Director of Thai Theatre Foundation US.
The evening will feature live performances, live painting, and artist showcases throughout the venue. Guests will enjoy a selection of Thai foods from leading Thai restaurants in New York City, including Chalong, Claude, Dahla New York, Dagg Thai, Hungry Thirsty, LumLum, Narkara, Samsaen, Soothr Thai Noodle Bar, along with beverages provided by Paleewong Trading Co Plc and Group B.
Tickets
https://www.tickettailor.com/events/thaitheatrefoundation/2156966
About the Royal Thai Consulate General in New York
The Royal Thai Consulate-General in New York is committed to fostering people-to-people connections and deepening cultural engagement in support of the enduring partnership between Thailand and the United States. The Consulate also places strong emphasis on empowering the new Thai generation, whose creativity and talents are helping to reimagine Thai identity and culture, while empowering Thai communities across generations in engaging with the wider public and contributing to the new perspectives of Thailand on the global stage.
About Thai Theatre Foundation
Thai Theatre Foundation exists to support and strengthen contemporary Thai theatre and theatre makers and to foster collaboration between Thai and US theatre artists. We welcome artists and audiences across lines of identity, background, and experience. Thai Theatre Foundation believes cultural representation must come with fair access to space, support, and compensation. We uplift Thai and Thai-American theatre makers not only through visibility but also through care, resources, and collaboration. We tell Thai and Thai-American stories not just to be heard but to open space, build relationships, and honor the people behind the work.
Support
Thai Next 2026 is supported by Tourism Authority of Thailand - New York Office, Thai Trade Center - New York, Bangkok Bank - New York branch, Thai Cultural Center of New York, Materials for the Arts, Blooming Orchid, Chalong, Dahla New York, Dagg Thai, Everythai, Group B, Hungry Thirsty, Jordan Trading – member of SCGP, Kadan Productions, LumLum, Narkara, Paleewong Trading Co Plc, Samsaen, and Soothr Thai Noodle Bar.
Press Contact
Parisa Preechakrekkun
Development@thaitheatre.org
thaitheatre.org