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FESTIVALS & EVENTS
Phuket is a vibrant hub of cultural events and festivals, each offering a unique glimpse into the rich traditions of Thailand. Throughout the year, the island hosts a variety of celebrations, from the lively Songkran water festival to the visually stunning Phuket Vegetarian Festival. Many of these events come with important customs and regulations, including alcohol bans on certain days, which expats should be mindful of. This page will guide you through the key festivals and cultural events in Phuket, helping you stay informed and prepared while immersing yourself in the island's colorful festivities.
PHUKET OLD TOWN FESTIVAL
Date: February 2-4, 2024
Kicking off the year is the Phuket Old Town Festival, a celebration that transforms the historic heart of the island into a lively carnival. With vibrant parades, cultural performances, and a myriad of local delicacies, this festival offers a fascinating journey into Phuket’s past.
CHINESE NEW YEAR
Date: February 12-14, 2024
Join in the festivities of the Chinese New Year, where the streets come alive with dragon and lion dances, vibrant processions, and traditional performances. Experience the island’s multicultural charm during this auspicious celebration.
THAO THEP KRASATTRI / THAO SI SUNTHON MEMORIAL FAIR
Date: March 13-15, 2024
Pay homage to Phuket’s heroic figures, Thao Thep Krasattri and Thao Si Sunthon, during this memorial fair. Engage in cultural activities, witness traditional ceremonies, and delve into the island’s storied history.
SONGKRAN - THAI NEW YEAR
Date: April 13-15, 2024
Songkran, the Thai New Year, is celebrated with lively water fights and traditional ceremonies. As the island comes alive with laughter and joy, immerse yourself in this unique experience that marks the beginning of the Thai lunar calendar.
TURTLE RELEASE
Date: April 22, 2024
Participate in the heartwarming Turtle Release event, where you can contribute to marine conservation efforts. Join locals and visitors alike as they release baby turtles into the sea, symbolizing hope for the future of these magnificent creatures.
POR TOR FESTIVAL
Date: August 23-29, 2024
The Por Tor Festival, also known as the Hungry Ghost Festival, is a Taoist celebration honoring ancestors. During this time, the streets are adorned with colorful decorations, and vibrant processions take place. Indulge in traditional Chinese performances and savor delicious local treats.
PHUKET VEGETARIAN FESTIVAL
Date: September 28 - October 7, 2024
One of Phuket’s most renowned festivals, the Vegetarian Festival, is a unique blend of spiritual devotion and cultural spectacle. Witness street processions, fire-walking rituals, and participants engaging in acts of self-mortification. It’s an intense and unforgettable experience.
LOY KRATHONG - FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS
Date: November 5, 2024
Loy Krathong, the Festival of Lights, is a magical celebration where locals release beautifully decorated floating baskets into the water. The sight of thousands of flickering lights on the rivers and beaches creates a mesmerizing and romantic atmosphere.
KING'S CUP REGATTA
Date: Early December 2024
For those seeking a nautical spectacle, the King’s Cup Regatta is a world-class sailing event that graces Phuket’s waters annually. Enjoy the stunning yachts and the competitive spirit that makes this regatta a must-see.