Last year, Clearwater experienced two new fun cultural events: a flower photo contest and an Asian Lion Dance – both hosted by Chiang Mai Thai & Sushi in The District in Downtown Clearwater.
This year, Chiang Mai Thai & Sushi will expand on the concept and sponsor “Thais That Bind: Family, Friends & Community” – a community celebration of Thai culture from April 13 – 16, 2022.
Chiang Mai, Thailand, is famous for its annual three-day Flower Festival with colorful blooms in all hues of the rainbow decorating the city’s beautiful gardens, pools and parks.
Chiang Mai Thai and Sushi in Downtown Clearwater is a family-run business that has been serving the community for the past 15 years, making it the longest continually operating restaurant in downtown Clearwater. Under the tutelage of chef (and owner) Ahn Louvon, chefs from across the globe come to learn the skills of traditional Thai cuisine.
Schedule of Events
All are open to the community and are free of charge.
Chiang Mai Flower Festival – outside of Chiang Mai 415 Cleveland Street, residents will be able to participate in creative photo ops in a display of flowers in honor of the restaurant’s namesake, the city of Chiang Mai which hosts the largest flower festival annually in Thailand. By posting on The District’s Facebook Account, they will be entering into a contest for dinner for 2 (highest vote recipient).
The event will also be partnering with the Clearwater Garden Club to celebrate and enjoy the beauty of Clearwater gardens, homes and backyards. Residents are encouraged to post their favorite flowers or gardens on The District’s Facebook Account for a 2nd contest for dinner for 2.
There will also be flower displays and a flower making table for children to participate and enjoy.
Thai Cooking Demonstration – April 16 from 4 p.m. – 5 p.m.
See your favorite Thai dishes and Sushi prepared by Chiang Mai chefs with enjoy samples from servers in traditional Thai costumes.
Thai DJ – April 16 from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Enjoy the sounds of traditional Thai music (along with a selection of favorite popular songs) outside the 400 block during The District’s monthly Sip & Stroll ($15 / $10 – to participate in the Sip & Stroll – where 10+ restaurants will be showcasing their own cuisine).
Lion Dancers – April 16, throughout the evening
The traditional Lion Dancers will be performing throughout the 400 Block throughout the evening.
Lions play an important role in Chinese mythology, and represent joy and happiness.
Lion dances are performed accompanied by the music of beating of drums, cymbals, and gongs instruments synchronized to the lion dance movements and actions.
People perform The Lion Dance to bring luck and to get rid of the devil. The dances will be performed by the Suncoast Asian Cultural Association, together with Taiko Drumming on the 400 block of Cleveland Street.
Bring your friends and family to experience this incredible window into Thai culture!
Related articles:
Chiang Mai Thai & Sushi Hosts Asian Lion Dance
Chiang Mai Flower Photo Contest
Introducing the District Advantages Program and Web App
