What will happen on the day? The Festival will start at 10am with the colourful traditional Buddhist blessing with Thai monks from local temples. This will be followed by the Annual traditional Thai long drum parade through Federation Square, along the River Yarra and in and around the CBD and an opening ceremony at 11.30am till noon.

Federation Square will be transformed into a haven of Thai culture with a number of tents showcasing Thai arts and crafts, Thai tourism, traditional Thai massage, fruit carving, handicrafts and information from sponsors and supporters.

The Federation Square stage will have continuous entertainment with Thai traditional dance shows featuring the 4 regions of Thailand; Muay Thai "kick boxing" displays; Thai videos; the annual "Miss Thai Festival 2008" Thai Beauty competition; Melbourne's annual Thai Fashion show featuring the best in Thai design and fabric, Thai silk and more.

18 of Melbourne's best Thai restaurants will be serving mouth watering Thai food from tents alongside the River Yarra at the River Terrace highlighting regional specialities at the amazing price of $7 a dish. Plus 3 Thai drinks and desert stalls.

Roving guides in Traditional Thai outfits will be available to provide you with information about the activities and about Thailand

A feature of the Riverside Terrace will be the Singha Beer garden and live music sound stage

The festival will close by 9pm.