The roads will be closed to traffic from 4pm to 8pm, Patong Municipality said in its announcement.
The three-day celebration, held each year to mark the official start of the tourism high season, will take place at ‘Bangla Square’, the area on Patong Beach at the end of Bangla Rd, starting at 10am each day.
The festival, this year themed Memories of a Lifetime’, will run from will stage its traditional ‘Grand Parade’ this evening, featuring colourful floats from local attractions including Phuket FantaSea, Carnival Magic, Simon Cabaret and Andamanda Water Park, as well as cultural and hotel business groups.
This year is the 38th edition of the annual spectacle.
Live entertainment will include concerts by local and renowned artists on the stage set up on the beach will add to the festive atmosphere, while cultural exhibits and local products will also be available.
The event, organized by Patong Municipality, aims to attract global tourists while celebrating the island’s cultural charm and thriving business community. Deputy Mayor Lalita Maneesiri emphasised the carnival’s importance as both a tourism magnet and a symbol of Phuket’s readiness for the high season.
Deputy Mayor Nasakorn Keesin estimates the event will generate at least B100 million in tourism revenue over the three days, contributing to Patong’s already robust economy, which he said welcomes 5 to 7 million visitors annually and generates B500mn in daily income.
Patong’s reputation as a safe and tourist-friendly destination will be reinforced with enhanced security measures, including more CCTV cameras and 10,000 lifeguards on duty daily. Visitors can also expect a variety of accommodations, ranging from budget hostels to luxury resorts, Deputy Mayor Nasakorn said.
“December is the perfect time to visit Phuket,” said Phuket Vice Governor Adul Chuthong at the festival press launch late last month
He highlighted the island’s natural beauty, lively beaches, and vibrant shopping and dining scene. In addition to the festivities, the carnival will showcase locally made products and folk art, further boosting the province’s economy at the community level, he said.
Following the carnival, Patong will host its signature New Year’s Eve countdown, featuring performances by top local and international artists. This year’s highlight is a set by renowned DJ 22Bullets on Dec 30, an addition expected to draw even larger crowds.
With extended nightlife hours boosting revenues by 20-30%, Patong’s business operators, said Weerawit Kreuasombat, President of the Patong Entertainment Business Association (PEBA).
“Come to Patong. We are ready to welcome you with open arms,” he said.