Isan Rot Hae: A Recreational Innovation for Balancing Culture and Happiness among Modern Isan Youth

Abstract

The Rot Hae (mobile music parade) in Northeastern Thailand represents a form of contemporary recreation that reflects the transformation of community lifestyles. It particularly serves as a space for youth to express their cultural identity and creativity through entertainment. This article aims to: 1) analyze the role of Rot Hae as a recreational tool that responds to the needs of youth in Isan communities, 2) explain the impact of Rot Hae on holistic well-being and community engagement, and 3) present sustainable development approaches for Rot Hae as a recreational innovation through collaboration among business operators, communities, and families. The findings indicated that Rot Hae fosters learning, stress reduction, and community cohesion through diverse participatory activities. Additionally, it stimulates the local economy and contributes to the preservation of traditional Isan culture in a modern context. However, negative effects have also been identified, such as noise pollution, excessive alcohol consumption, drug use, inappropriate behaviors, and cultural distortion, which may undermine long-term social and cultural values. Therefore, future development should focus on designing Rot Hae activities that are safe, inclusive, and responsive to diverse audiences, while maintaining a balance between community happiness, cultural preservation, and economic sustainability. The success of such an approach requires responsible management by business operators, community participation in establishing safety regulations, and family involvement in encouraging youth participation in meaningful and creative activities.