Nong Chok district’s yearly agricultural fair at Lam Sai Canal officially kicked off on Friday under the auspices of Bangkok governor Chadchart Sittipunt.

The fair, which will run until August 13, was made possible by the Nong Chok district office and a network of public and private partners.

Chadchart said all partners shared the same goal of promoting Lam Sai Community’s local economy. The goal is also in line with the city’s aim to promote the unique characteristics of all 50 Bangkok districts as economic drivers.

“Nong Chok is a prominent agricultural district in Bangkok with unique characteristics,” Chadchart said.

“The city plans to host similar activities at other neighbourhoods every year to promote local tourist attractions and income for community members.”

The campaign for Lam Sai Community comes in the form of a tour programme to explore the community lifestyle and to turn the Lam Sai market into a new tourist hotspot.

Lam Sai Canal is a highlight of the community as there are several learning centres, restaurants and cafes along the canal to welcome both Thai and foreign visitors. For instance:

• Ban Khru Daen Learning Centre: Focusing on King Rama IX’s sufficiency economy

• Lam Sai Farm Learning Centre: Provides knowledge on raising ornamental birds like black swans, Mandarin ducks and ring-necked parakeet

• Khok Faed Agricultural Technology Transfer Centre: Provides knowledge on creating hay cubes to cut down on the burning of fields

• P.K. Sausage Learning Centre: Provides knowledge on community enterprise

• Again Please Café: A famous check-in point among Thai tourists of all ages

Activities at the fair include exhibitions from the four learning centres and schools in Nong Chok, booths selling community products and items from neighbourhoods in eastern Bangkok, and special-priced products from FBT Sports and CP Group.

There is also an open stage where children, students, and seniors are invited to put on musical and cultural performances.