Pattaya City is tuning up its saxophones and sprucing up its sandy shoes, all set to host the breathtaking spectacle of musical flair, the “Pattaya International Jazz Festival 2024.” This year’s vibrant theme, “The Harmonic Jazz & Beach,” promises a melodious blend of warm sandy beaches and rhythm-rich jazz that’ll leave your toes tapping and heart singing. Scheduled for December 6 – 7, 2024, from 5:00 PM to the magical hour of midnight, this festival is set against the stunning backdrop of Pattaya Beach in Chonburi, Thailand.
Poramet Ngampichet, the Mayor of Pattaya City, excitedly shares that the festival aims to elevate Pattaya into a “WORLD CLASS EVENT HUB,” a melody of music, art, and culture ready to allure travelers from every corner of the world. With jazz harmonies echoing against the setting sun, the festival invites attendees to soak in world-class musical performances while also highlighting Pattaya’s vibrant cultural allure, delectable cuisine, and lively nightlife—a testament to the city’s strategic use of music festivals as a beacon for tourism.
The festival’s headliner needs no introduction—Ronan Keating, the global Irish sensation known for his mesmerizingly smooth voice. Revered in Thailand, especially for his classic “When You Say Nothing at All” from the Notting Hill soundtrack, Keating will grace the stage with his enchanting jazz tunes. His Guinness World Record for the “Longest Complete Run of Top 10 Singles” only hints at the charisma he brings to the stage.
Adding more sizzle to the lineup, Chonburi Provincial Administrative Organization’s President, Wittaya Khunpluem, highlights the collaborative effort to make this festival a jazz odyssey of world-class performances. Notably, it comes with a special price tag—free admission to catch these live performances, crafted to deliver an up-close and personal experience with the jazz maestros, while simultaneously boosting local economies and tourism.
The festival proudly presents a kaleidoscope of jazz talents. Tabitha King, with her soulful fusion of jazz, R&B, funk, and blues, is set to light up the stage, joined by Infinity, Thailand’s jazz fusion pioneers. Thai jazz icons such as Koh Mr. Saxman & Band join hands—or rather, instruments—with Pom Autobahn and Ford Sobchai, while Burin Boonvisut and acclaimed vocalist Gam Wichayanee promise to enchant with mesmerizing duets. Also, the internationally celebrated Rasmee Isan Soul will lend her award-winning voice, adding an eastern flavor to the jazz feast.
The vibrant musical tapestry continues with emerging Thai jazz bands like ASIA7 and H3F, alongside top saxophonist Pae Sax. As the music fills the air, local vendors will tickle taste buds with culinary delights from Pattaya and its surrounds, turning the festival into an all-sensory experience.
Pattaya’s strategic investments in infrastructure align with the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC), cementing its position as a growing powerhouse of tourism, economy, and world-class events. This initiative is a key part of Pattaya City’s ambitious “Better Pattaya” policy, sculpting the city into a premier event and cultural hub.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is in tune with these ambitions. Chaiwat Tamthai, director of the TAT Pattaya Office, asserts their plan to cast Thailand as a “World-Class Event Hub.” With a focus on “Amazing 5F and More,” these efforts highlight Thailand’s soft power in Food, Film, Fashion, Fight, and Festival, positioning this jazz festival as a potential symphony of Thailand’s soft power, enhancing its allure on the global stage.
Mark your calendars for an unforgettable experience on December 6 – 7, 2024, at Central Pattaya Beach, Chonburi. It’s not just music to your ears—it’s an entire cultural ocean waiting for you, free for all attendees, thanks to the generous support of the Tourism Authority of Thailand and a medley of esteemed sponsors!
This festival sounds amazing, especially with Ronan Keating headlining! Can’t wait to be there.
Ronan Keating on a jazz festival lineup seems strange. He’s more pop than jazz!
I get your point, but mixing genres could bring more people in. Plus, his voice is soothing for jazz too!
Jazz festivals should stick to real jazz artists, not mainstream pop.
Ronan’s songs have jazz influences. It’s a smart move to attract a wider audience.
How is a large tourist event aligned with Pattaya’s ‘Better Pattaya’ environmental goals? More festivals mean more pollution!
Good point. Tourism boosts the economy, but it can have adverse environmental impacts.
True, but if it’s planned well with sustainability in mind, it could be beneficial. Local economies need these events.
Free admission to all these performances. Sounds too good to be true. What’s the catch?
Perhaps local businesses sponsor it for exposure. Seems like a win-win situation.
I hope so. As long as it’s authentic and not just a marketing gimmick.
Does anyone else think this is just a way to whitewash Pattaya’s nightlife reputation?
Definitely. They’re clearly trying to rebrand the city with these high-end cultural events.
Pattaya’s been working on that for years. These events are a good start!
The line-up looks stellar! Especially excited for Tabitha King and Infinity.
Infinity always delivers a unique sound. Jazz fusion at its best!
Can’t beat classic jazz. Fusion is overrated.
Jazz on a beach sounds idyllic. Does anyone know if there will be international artists aside from Keating?
Yes, the article mentions international acts like Rasmee Isan Soul. Should be an eclectic mix.
I’m just as excited for the food from local vendors as I am for the music!
I was there last year. Fantastic vibes and even better music. Can’t wait!
I’ve heard mixed reviews about crowd control. Was it an issue last time?
Little crowded but manageable. Hopefully, they improve it this year.
It’s interesting how festivals are becoming geopolitical tools. Pattaya is using jazz to enhance its global image.
Exactly! Art and music have always been soft power channels. It’s smart and engaging.
Besides tourism, it helps in cultural exchange, which is invaluable.
Jazz festivals are dad’s thing, not mine. I don’t get the point of all this hype.
You might be surprised! Jazz has evolved so much and there’s something for everyone.