Rama III and Memorial Bridge closures announced for Bangkok light festival

Bangkok police have announced temporary traffic closures on Rama III Bridge and Memorial Bridge on selected dates between 12 November and 13 December 2026 to ensure safety during fireworks displays for the Vijit Chao Phraya 2026 festival.

Metropolitan Police Division 8 confirmed the restrictions on Thursday (November 12), advising motorists to plan their journeys and avoid the affected routes during the scheduled closures.

The measures include the closure of one inbound lane on Rama III Bridge for extended periods, as well as temporary full closures of both bridges during evening fireworks displays.

Rama III Bridge closures

The leftmost inbound lane of Rama III Bridge will be closed from noon to midnight on 12, 13, 15, 20 and 27 November, and 4, 5 and 11 December.

On four of those dates, the entire bridge will also be closed to traffic in both directions from 8.30pm to 9pm. These closures are scheduled for 20 and 27 November, and 4 and 11 December.

Full closures will take place from 9pm to 9.30pm on 12, 13 and 15 November, and 5 December.

Memorial Bridge closures

Memorial Bridge, also known as Phra Phutta Yodfa Bridge, will be closed to all vehicles in both directions from 8.30pm to 9pm on 12, 13, 14, 15, 21, 22, 28 and 29 November, and 5, 6, 12 and 13 December.

On 12, 13 and 15 November, and 5 December, motorists should expect successive closures of the two bridges.

Memorial Bridge will close first, from 8.30pm to 9pm, followed by Rama III Bridge from 9pm to 9.30pm.

Motorists advised to plan alternative routes

Police have asked motorists to arrange their journeys around the restrictions and avoid stopping or parking on either bridge to watch the fireworks.

Drivers should also follow traffic signals and instructions from officers stationed in the affected areas.

The authorities noted that closure times may be adjusted as circumstances require.

Vijit Chao Phraya 2026 runs for 31 days

Vijit Chao Phraya 2026 will officially take place from 13 November to 13 December, although some fireworks displays and related traffic closures begin on 12 November.

The 31-day festival, organised under the theme “The Light of Imagination”, will feature illuminated attractions and performances along both banks of the Chao Phraya River, stretching from Rama III Bridge to Rama VIII Bridge.

The event aims to promote Bangkok's night-time tourism, attract Thai and international visitors, and encourage travel and tourism spending towards the end of 2026.