Celebrate the 250th anniversary of American independence at Freedom 250: American Fair Chiang Mai, hosted by the U.S. Consulate General Chiang Mai from 16–18 October 2026 at Chiang Mai PAO Park. The three-day event will feature live music, American food, cultural exhibitions, art workshops, interactive activities and family-friendly entertainment, with free admission for everyone.
Chiang Mai is the third stop on a four-city tour celebrating America’s 250th anniversary, following successful fairs in Hat Yai from 4–6 September and Korat from 2–4 October. The celebrations will conclude in Bangkok at Siam Paragon from 23–25 October.
U.S. Ambassador to Thailand Sean O’Neill invites people across Thailand, including the American community living in the country, to join the celebrations and mark this historic milestone.
Opening Ceremony and Live Entertainment
The American Fair Chiang Mai opens on Friday, 16 October, at 5pm with a lively opening ceremony featuring dancing Teslas and Harley-Davidson motorcycles, alongside performances by students from Dara Academy and The Prince Royal’s College.
The Carolina Jazz Ensemble, travelling from Southport, North Carolina, will bring American jazz to Chiang Mai, while a local swing group will keep the atmosphere lively and invite visitors to join in and show off their dance moves.
Explore the Event Highlights
Transportation Hub
Discover and experience a showcase of leading American vehicle brands and technologies, including Harley-Davidson motorcycles, John Deere tractors, Ford trucks, Teslas, MuvMi vehicles and Jeeps. Visitors can explore the displays and enjoy demonstrations featuring a variety of vehicles.
Cooking Pavilion
Enjoy live cooking demonstrations by Chef Alvin Dela Cruz of Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai, alongside creative mocktails prepared by bartenders from Chiang Mai Marriott Hotel, with additional culinary highlights celebrating American food and beverage culture.
Art Workshops
Take part in exclusive art workshops throughout the weekend, hosted by MAIIAM Contemporary Art Museum. These sessions offer visitors opportunities to explore their creativity and engage with art through hands-on activities.
Cultural Exhibitions
Discover exhibitions presented by the Jim Thompson House Museum and Art Center, exploring Jim Thompson’s legacy in Northern Thailand and the history of the Free Thai Movement, also known as Seri Thai. The programme includes archival materials, oral histories, a mini quiz with prizes and a chili paste tasting.
Cowboy Contest
Join the fun on Sunday, 18 October, with a cowboy dress-up contest celebrating the spirit and style of the American West.
Climbing and Caving Activities
Learn from the experts at Progression and challenge personal limits through climbing and caving experiences, with opportunities to discover how high and how deep participants can go.
Food, Activities and Business Booths
Explore more than 40 booths featuring a wide variety of food, interactive activities, and businesses from Thailand and the United States. Visitors can enjoy a lively mix of food, entertainment, shopping and hands-on experiences throughout the fair.
Discover U.S. Mission Resources and Activities
Visitors can also meet representatives and explore educational displays and activities presented by various U.S. Mission organisations and partners.
Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA): Participate in educational activities offering a behind-the-scenes look at the agency’s work.
USDA Foreign Agricultural Service: Discover some of America’s finest foods through displays presented with partner organisations, highlighting innovative and longstanding culinary partnerships connecting businesses and communities in the United States and Thailand to support shared prosperity and better nutrition.
U.S. Marine Security Guards: Visit the informational booth and watch demonstrations showcasing their rigorous physical training routines.
EducationUSA: Learn more about educational opportunities and studying in the United States.
Additional activities, demonstrations and experiences will be available throughout the event, offering something for visitors of all ages and interests.
Event Details
Event: Freedom 250: American Fair Chiang Mai
Dates: 16–18 October 2026
Venue: Chiang Mai PAO Park
Admission: Free
Opening Hours
Friday, 16 October: 5pm–9pm
Saturday, 17 October: 12pm–9pm
Sunday, 18 October: 12pm–8pm
Celebrate 250 years of American independence through culture, music, food, innovation and community at Freedom 250: American Fair Chiang Mai. With a diverse programme of performances, exhibitions, workshops and interactive activities, the event invites everyone to experience American culture and enjoy a memorable weekend in Chiang Mai.