Organised for the 11th consecutive year, the event is a collaboration between the Phuket Provincial Administrative Organisation (PPAO), the Phuket Tourism Business Association and Limelight Phuket shopping mall.
The ‘No L’ (‘No Alcohol’) festival, to be held from 4pm 10pm on Sunday, Apr 13, on Dibuk Rd in front of Limelight Phuket and Queen Sirikit Park, will feature a range of cultural performances and entertainment while maintaining strict regulations to ensure a safe and family-friendly environment, Phuket Vice Governor Samawit Suphanphai announced at a press conference yesterday (Mar 19).
Joining Mr Samawit were PPAO President Rewat Areerob, Phuket Tourist Association President Thaneth Tantipiriyakij and Siriwan Siharat, Director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Phuket office.
Law enforcement and health advocacy representatives were also present to support the initiative.
This year’s festival will feature traditional elements such as the bathing of the Buddha image for good fortune and the water-pouring ceremony for elders, along with performances by Siam Niramit.
Additionally, the event will be decorated with Kebaya patterns, a nod to the traditional women’s attire from Southeast Asia, which has been recognised as UNESCO cultural heritage, Mr samawit said.
Music lovers can look forward to performances by popular bands, including Octobye, 8115, Mood, Hungry Children, Single Band and guest act ANT Band from Bangkok, along with DJ sets from DJ Hut and MC TMO. The event will culminate in a grand performance by Off Pongsaak and his full band, he added.
The festival aims to raise awareness about the dangers of alcohol consumption and reduce the number of alcohol-related road accidents during Songkran, Mr Samawit explained.
Participants at the event will be required to follow key regulations, including:
- No alcohol, kratom or intoxicated individuals.
- No weapons or fighting.
- No cigarettes, e-cigarettes or marijuana.
- No outside food, drinks, or drinking glasses.
- No flour or coloured powders.
Attendees are encouraged to wear Thai or local fabrics and immerse themselves in the vibrant, alcohol-free Songkran celebration. The festival promises a lively yet responsible way to enjoy Thailand’s traditional New Year festivities in Phuket, Mr Samawit said.
“We hope that this year, Phuket will not be listed among the provinces with high accident and casualty rates,” he added.