Motorists are being advised to plan their journeys as certain roads will be closed and traffic diverted during the month-long "Aun Ai Rak Khlai Khwam Nao" winter fair at the Royal Plaza in Bangkok's Dusit district.
With the event kicking off on Thursday, traffic around the venue will be rerouted and motorists are encouraged to study routes if they cannot avoid the area, deputy police spokesman Pol Col Kritsana Pattanacharoen said yesterday.
Uthong Nai Road and a lane on Si Ayutthaya Road [in front of Sanam Suea Pa and Suan Amporn] will be closed during the event.
From 9am to 10pm, part of Ratchadamnoen Nok Avenue will become a one-way street and motorists heading towards the Royal Plaza will need to turn left or right at the intersection.
From 6pm to 10pm, a section of Si Ayutthaya Road from Phon 1 intersection to Wat Benchamabophit intersection and a section of Ratchadamnoen Nok Avenue from Mis Ka Wan intersection to the King Rama V Equestrian Monument intersection will be closed.
Inspired by His Majesty the King, "Aun Ai Rak Khlai Khwam Nao" (Warm Love to Relieve the Cold) is taking place from today until March 11 at the Royal Plaza and Sanam Suea Pa next to the plaza.
The winter fair is open from 10.30am to 9pm from Sunday to Thursday and from 10.30am to 10pm on Friday and Saturday. It features exhibitions, special product sales and cultural shows, among its special attractions.
Visitors are also encouraged to wear Thai traditional attire or Thai fabrics at the festival which provides an opportunity to appreciate Thai culture and traditions.
The fair is divided into three zones: exhibitions at the Royal Plaza in honour of King Rama V and the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej and his contribution to developing the nation; shops and cultural performances at Sanam Suea Pa where visitors can purchase products from royal projects and enjoy open-air movies. Traditional Thai cuisine and various cultural demonstrations are also on offer.
Proceeds go to alleviate hardship across the country. Admission is free.