The grand celebration, showcasing the charm of local culture to boost tourism and generate income for local residents. The festival, which continues through to tomorrow night (Feb 5), is expected to significantly contribute to the city’s economy.
The opening ceremony took place at the Chartered Bank Intersection, a central landmark in Phuket City. The event was presided over by Phuket Vice Governor Samawit Suphanphai alongside Phuket Town Mayor Saroj Angkanapilas.
The ceremony saw participation from municipal executives, council members, government officials, private sector representatives, local leaders and a large number of Thai and foreign visitors.
Mayor Saroj emphasised the festival’s importance in stimulating the local economy and enhancing Phuket’s tourism appeal. He noted that the event reflects Phuket Town’s cultural diversity, bringing together different races and religions in a celebration that attracts visitors from around the world.
Through proactive tourism policies under the ‘Discover Phuket’ initiative, Phuket City Municipality aims to integrate traditional culture into its tourism strategy while preserving local customs for future generations, he said.
The festivities yesterday began with a grand parade, highlighting Phuket’s rich cultural heritage and featuring over 300 participants of all ages.
For the 2025 celebration, Phuket City has been adorned with festive decorations, including a stunning dragon lantern tunnel featuring three illuminated dragons in red, pink and blue, symbolising good fortune.
The historic Old Town area has also been enhanced with vibrant displays, including ‘Nong Noey’, the giant inflatable teddy bear, dressed in a red Chinese outfit at the Chartered Bank Intersection, delighting tourists.
In the evening, visitors can enjoy light and sound shows at six different locations, as well as explore over 460 stalls offering local food and products. The festival is anticipated to generate significant revenue for Phuket’s tourism sector over the three-day period.
Five main roads through the heart of Phuket Town ‒ Thalang Rd, Krabi Rd, Phang Nga Rd, Phuket Rd and Thepkrasattri Rd ‒ are closed to traffic each afternoon and evening while the festival is underway.
The roads are closed to traffic from 2pm to 11pm each day to accommodate activities and ensure the safety of all participants, Phuket City Municipality has explained.