This year’s festival, themed ‘Be You, Be Equality,’ aims to highlight Phuket’s growing role as an inclusive, diverse destination, while supporting the province’s bid to host the global InterPride 2026 conference.
The official press conference was held on Friday (May 30) at Phuket Provincial Hall. Phuket Governor Sophon Suwannarat led the event alongside provincial officials and media, emphasising the importance of inclusive tourism and equal rights.
Suphakorn Suwan, President of the Andaman Power Phuket Association, the main organiser of the festival, stated that while full event schedules in some districts are still being confirmed, Patong has taken the lead with a full week of activities already locked in from today through Sunday (June 2-8).
“Our goal is to make Phuket a city of equality ‒ not just in words, but through action, community support and global engagement,” he said.
A prior press briefing on May 20 at Jungceylon shopping mall detailed Patong’s readiness to host events, with Vice Governor Suwit Pansengiam present along with government and community group representatives. The collaboration spans multiple sectors, including local businesses and LGBTQIN+ networks.
PATONG
Patong City has confirmed its lineup of major festivities from June 2-8. The schedule set for Patong event:
Phuket Pride Beach Volleyball (June 2-4) at Bangla Police Box, Patong Beach
Pride Talk (June 4) at Phuket Simon Cabaret Theater, featuring real-life stories and discussions from LGBTQIAN+ advocates
Miss Queen Andaman Power 2025 (June 6) at Jungceylon shopping mall, a transgender beauty contest
Pride Parade (June 8) starting at 5pm, marching from Prachanukhro Rd, along the Patong beachfront, then east along Bangla Rd to Jungceylon, featuring flash performances, creative outfits and prizes
PHUKET TOWN
Even as activity schedules are still not released, Phuket Old Town has already come alive with rainbow-themed decorations, creating a festive backdrop for the month.
Streets, shops, and landmarks are lit up with Pride colours, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists to take photos and share the spirit of equality and love.
The decorations serve as a visual statement of the city’s support for LGBTQIAN+ rights and a commitment to promoting Phuket as a province of acceptance and creativity.
Mr Suphakorn told the press that “Phuket is using this year’s festival to strengthen its proposal to host the InterPride Virtual General Meeting & World Conference 2026, a major international LGBTQIAN+ event.”
“If successful, it would mark the first time Thailand hosts the gathering, boosting visibility and tourism while reinforcing its human rights commitments,” he added.
“Phuket Pride Festival 2025 is not just a celebration, It’s a step forward for equality, for human rights, and for positioning Phuket as a city that welcomes everyone,” Mr Suphakorn concluded.