Khantoke-style dinners became a social gathering in 1953. In that year, Ajarn Kraisee Nimmanahaeminda held a very grand party in honor of the Chief of Justice of Region 4, Ajarn Sanya Dhamsakdi, (who later became prime minister of Thailand) and Mr. John Widney of the U.S. Consulate who were about to be transferred to Bangkok and U.S.A. respectively. At that time, the dinner was set in an atmosphere of rich northern culture with splendid costumes and singing. Within three years, Ajarn Kraisee held other Khantoke dinners. A folk dance program was included as part of the entertainment. The Khantoke dinner with the blend of northern culture has been established for 47 years in Chiangmai.