On October 12, 2026, at 1:30 PM, Dr.Kantapop Buathong, Assistant to the President for Corporate Communications and International Affairs, along with Asst.Prof.Dr.Prompassorn Chunhabunyatip, Assistant to the President for Student Affairs, Art and Culture, chaired the 1st/2026 Public Relations and Corporate Communication Committee Meeting at the Phanom Methee Room, 5th Floor, University Headquarters. The meeting focused on planning both onsite and online cultural activities under the initiative "Nakhon Phanom University Preserves the Illuminated Boat Procession Tradition 2026."

The discussion outlined event organization and public relations strategies to support the annual festival, which takes place from October 16–27, 2026, at the NPU Cultural Pavilion (Lai Reu Fai Maker's Way)on Sunthon Wichit Road along the Mekong River, in collaboration with Nakhon Phanom Municipality. As part of the grand celebration, NPU will showcase its signature Illuminated Boat Display to welcome visitors from around the world.

NPU’s Illuminated Boat Display will run for 7 select nights (October 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, and 27, 2026) starting at 8:00 PM. Each evening will feature captivating cultural shows, with live broadcasts on the Facebook page "เรือไฟ ม.นครพนม" (NPU Illuminated Boat), allowing audiences worldwide to experience the atmosphere online.

This year's showcase boat measures approximately 60 meters in length and is illuminated by over 7,900 oil lanterns, symbolizing the united effort of the NPU community in preserving local wisdom and celebrating Nakhon Phanom’s rich cultural identity.

Nakhon Phanom University warmly invites residents and tourists to experience the breathtaking illuminated boat display, cultural performances, and enchanting Mekong River traditions from October 16–27, 2026