June 15 – 19, 2023
Pattaya City, the Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Development Administration (DASTA), and the Thai Film Archive (Thai Film Archive) jointly organized the Pattaya Film Festival 2023. The opening ceremony, held at Central Marina Pattaya, was honored by the presence of Dr. Chula Sukmanop, Secretary-General of the Eastern Economic Corridor Policy Committee; Ms. Sasithorn Suwanmanee, Inspector-General of the Ministry of Culture; Mr. Parames Ngamphichet, Mayor of Pattaya City; Air Chief Marshal Athikun Kongmee, Director of DASTA; Ms. Chalida Uabamrungjit, Director of the Thai Film Archive; and other executives and heads of government departments and related agencies. Mr. Niti Vivatvanich, Deputy Governor of Chonburi Province, presided over the opening ceremony.
The objective is to raise awareness, encourage participation, and concretely support film activities in Pattaya, enhance economic value, and distribute income to the local community. The Designated Areas for Sustainable Development (DAST) will coordinate the implementation of activities aimed at achieving UNESCO's Creative Cities Network for Film certification.
The event featured film screenings, marking the first time a film festival has been held in Pattaya. A selection of high-quality films, both Thai and international, were screened, many of which were shot in Pattaya. The festival also provided opportunities for youth participation and creative expression, such as musical performances and screenings of short films by young filmmakers.
