Magic of Thailand Festival Returns to Brighton

The Magic of Thailand Festival is returning to Brighton this summer, bringing a weekend of authentic Thai street food, music, and cultural performances to Preston Park. Organised by BANGKOK BOX as part of their 2026 tour, this two-day event is scheduled for Saturday 15 August and Sunday 16 August 2026, running from 10:00 to 19:00 each day. It offers a straightforward way to experience Thai culture locally, featuring traditional Buddhist monk blessings to start the day, followed by a lineup of entertainment that includes Muay Thai boxing demonstrations, ladyboy shows, and traditional music and dance.

Food is a major focus of the festival, with numerous stalls serving authentic Thai street food alongside a dedicated beer and cocktail garden. Visitors can also explore a market section featuring oriental groceries, crafts, clothing, and produce, or opt for an authentic Thai massage. For those attending with children, the event includes rides and a play area. Tickets are priced at £6 per day for adults (aged 15 and over), while children under 15 can enter for free. You can purchase tickets online in advance via Skiddle or pay at the gate on the day. Both card and cash are accepted on-site, though the organisers recommend bringing cash. Keep in mind that outside food and drink are not permitted unless you have specific dietary requirements, and dogs are welcome as long as they are kept on a lead.

The festival venue, Preston Park, is located on Preston Road (BN1 6AU) and is easily accessible from the nearby Preston Park railway station. As one of Brighton's largest green spaces, the park itself has a rich history, being home to the 'Preston Twins' (some of the oldest elm trees in the world) and the historic Preston Park Velodrome. While the festival takes over a portion of the park, the wider site features two permanent cafes—the Chalet Cafe and the Rotunda Cafe—as well as a children's playground and walled gardens. Limited parking is available on-site with priority for disabled visitors, and additional on-street parking can be found along Preston Park Avenue.