By NUTTCHANOK CHIAMSAKUL                                                

Melbourne's Thai Culture and Food Festival has grown to become the second largest event of its kind outside Thailand, now attracting more than 100,000 visitors.

Thai Culture and Food Festival president Tan Punturaumporn is "proud" to showcase Thailand's rich cultural heritage.

"We should be proud that our ancestors passed on a lot of good things to our generation," he said.

This year's festival will feature more than 16 authentic Thai food stalls, a kids ambassador contest, cultural performances, cooking demonstrations, a beer garden and live bands.

With the support from the Thai Ministry of Culture, during the festival Melbournians can expect to indulge in  traditional arts such as a theatrical puppetry performance from Joe Louis Puppet Theatre – Thailand's last small puppets troupe.

Mr Punturaumporn said the festival, which required three months of planning, could not be accomplished without help from the Thai community in Victoria.

"To see people coming in to help, that sharing, that community sense of togetherness. It's really rewarding that way," he said.

The Thai Culture and Food Festival runs this weekend on Saturday 1am-7pm and on Sunday from 10am-9pm. Entry is free.