Phuket City Mayor Saroj Angkanapilas unveiled the event at a press conference held at the Chartered Bank intersection yesterday (Jan 27), alongside representatives from the Phuket Provincial Culture Office, the Tourism Authority of Thailand Phuket office and other key partners.
The festival aims to celebrate and preserve Phuket’s cultural heritage while promoting tourism and stimulating the local economy. By showcasing the city’s rich traditions and creative flair, the event supports the government’s policy of leveraging ‘soft power’ to enhance Thailand’s cultural prominence and aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, Mayor Saroj said.
Mayor Saroj emphasised that the festival bridges Phuket’s past and present, highlighting the connection between generations while fostering community pride. The event reflects a shared commitment to preserving the city’s cultural identity and promoting unity among residents and visitors alike, he noted.
This year’s festival, themed ‘Phuket Festival 2025: The Charm of Culture, The Relationship of Phuket City,’ promises a blend of traditional and modern activities:
- Grand Parade: Over 300 participants will take part in a procession showcasing Phuket’s unique arts, culture and local lifestyle.
- Phuket Old Town Charm Discovery Challenge: Visitors can explore the area, participate in a fun scavenger hunt and win prizes.
- Interactive Experiences: Activities include auspicious word writing, plaster painting for kids, glow-in-the-dark cloth bag painting and creative projects promoting environmental conservation.
- Digital Storytelling: Projector mapping will narrate Phuket’s history and culture in a light-and-sound display.
A key attraction this year is the ‘Dragon Lantern Tunnel’, a 40-metre installation with three intricately designed sections spread across Krabi Rd, Thepkrasattri Rd and Phuket Rd.
Cultural stage performances, featuring light and sound shows and youth showcases, will take place on the main stage opposite the Peranakan Museum and across five smaller stages at various iconic Old Town locations.
Food lovers can indulge in offerings from over 460 vendors, celebrating Phuket’s designation as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, with an array of local delicacies, Mayor Saroj said.
To accommodate visitors, more than 920 parking spaces have been arranged across eight locations, including Sanam Chai (300 spaces), Plookpanya School (50 spaces) and Limelight shopping mall (150 spaces).