The Udon Thani International Horticultural Expo 2026, an AIPH-approved Green City Expo, is calling on creative minds to bring its official mascot to life.
The Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives officially launched the mascot design competition on February 28, 2025, inviting designers, students, and creative individuals to craft a mascot that embodies the Expo's theme: Diversity of Life – Connecting People, Water, and Plants for Sustainable Living. Unveiled at a press conference attended by key officials, including Miss Anongnat Chakaew, Secretary to the Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, and Mr. Rachan Sunhua, Governor of Udon Thani Province, the Expo is set to be a milestone event. Running from November 1, 2026, to March 14, 2027, it will showcase Thailand's horticultural expertise while fostering innovation, trade, and sustainability in the Greater Mekong Subregion.
This event will be held at Nong Dae Wetland in Udon Thani's Kut Sa Sub-district, spanning 164.8 hectares, making it the first-ever International Horticultural Expo hosted on a wetland. The site, rich in biodiversity, highlights Thailand's vision for harmonizing urban development with nature. Following an AIPH site inspection, the Expo has been confirmed as a Category B International Horticultural Exhibition, reinforcing its global significance.
The Expo is expected to welcome 3.6 million visitors, with participation from over 20 countries, including Nepal, Bhutan, and Qatar. In addition to cutting-edge horticultural exhibits, the Expo will celebrate Udon Thani's unique cultural heritage, including special events such as the 134th anniversary of the city's founding in February 2027.
The mascot design competition presents a rare opportunity for artists to shape the identity of this event. The winning mascot will serve as the Expo's ambassador, appearing in promotional campaigns, educational materials, and merchandise, ensuring a lasting impression on visitors. Open to students and professionals, participants can submit up to two original mascot designs by April 1, 2025. The top ten finalists will be selected by a panel of expert judges, including renowned Thai illustrators Jackkrit Anantakul and Sahred Toy (Aruk Ornvilai). The grand prize includes a total reward of 50,000 baht, with winners announced on April 11, 2025.
Entries must align with the Expo's sustainability vision and be adaptable for practical use, including a full-sized mascot costume. All submissions must be original, unpublished, and free from AI-generated content. With the Expo promising to be a global hub for horticultural innovation and sustainability, this competition offers creatives a chance to leave their mark on an international stage.
For more information:
AIPH
www.aiph.org