In key areas such as Thalang Rd, Phang Nga Rd and Phuket Rd, altars adorned with offerings were prominently displayed in front of homes, shops and businesses. The lively scene reflected the community’s dedication to preserving cultural traditions, and the atmosphere marked a noticeable increase in observing the New Year compared to recent years.
At the Jui Tui Shrine, located on Soi Phuthon, off Ranong Rd, a steady stream of worshippers gathered to pay homage and seek blessings from sacred objects. While the number of visitors appeared modest, the shrine retained its importance as a spiritual centre for the occasion. Devotees participated in rituals such as refilling oil lamps and lighting firecrackers to welcome good fortune for the year ahead.
Interestingly, fewer people were seen wearing traditional red clothing, a color symbolising prosperity and joy in Chinese culture. Many attendees mentioned that after completing their prayers and rituals, they would return to work, balancing their daily responsibilities with the festive occasion.
Beyond the shrine, the celebratory spirit extended to other parts of Phuket Town. Residents set up altars along various streets and carried out customs such as lighting firecrackers and distributing red envelopes filled with money to children and grandchildren, a tradition symbolising good luck and blessings for the younger generation.
The activities and cultural practices highlighted the importance of Chinese New Year as a unifying celebration for Phuket’s Chinese Thai community, showcasing their heritage and commitment to tradition.
Meanwhile, Patong Municipality has transformed the area to celebrate the Chinese New Year, this year marking the Year of the Snake, decorating the city with red lanterns and creating five designated photo spots for tourists to enjoy and capture memorable moments during the festivities.
The five locations are:
- The ‘Patong City’ sign on Patong Hill.
- A red lantern archway at the Sea Pearl Hotel intersection.
- Bangla Square by Patong Beach.
- A red lantern pole at the Laem Phet roundabout, near the Patong Beach sign.
- The Pearl roundabout.
Visitors are encouraged to explore all five spots and take beautiful photos to celebrate the Chinese New Year.
At Phuket Thaihua ASEAN Wittaya School in Wichit, Chinese New Year activities focused on strengthening Thai-Chinese relations and enhancing students’ skills, knowledge and abilities in Chinese language and culture through a variety of creative and interactive events.
Held at the Khru Sunpin Learning Room, the event also marked the 50th anniversary of Thai-Chinese diplomatic relations.
Sombat Atiset, Chairman of the Phuket branch of the Lok Sien Kok Charity Foundation and the school’s Executive Board, attended the event alongside Phuket Vice Governor Ronnarong Thipsiri and Li Cheng Long, Deputy Consul-General of the chinese Consulate in Songkhla and Director of the Consulate General Office in Phuket.
Also present were Sunan Malichu, Manager and Director of the school, joined by students, teachers, parents, the Huachiew Association and members of the Lok Sien Kok foundation.
The celebration featured a wide range of activities designed to immerse participants in Chinese culture. Performances by students of all ages showcased the richness and diversity of Chinese traditions. Tea-making workshops, led by expert teachers from China, introduced students to the traditional methods of brewing and savoring authentic Chinese tea. Students also participated in hands-on dumpling-making sessions, learning to prepare and wrap dumplings, which symbolize good luck and prosperity in Chinese culture.
Language-focused activities included practicing Chinese speaking skills in simulated scenarios, playing games to answer questions in Chinese, and learning everyday Chinese vocabulary and phrases, blending education with entertainment. The event also used modern technology, such as VR glasses, allowing students to virtually explore iconic Chinese landmarks like the Great Wall and the Forbidden City. These immersive experiences aimed to provide the students with insights into Chinese history and culture in a fun and engaging way.
Additionally, a Chinese New Year market was set up, where students operated stalls to sell various products, gaining entrepreneurial experience. The festive atmosphere was further enhanced by participants, including students, teachers and parents, dressed in traditional Chinese attire to celebrate the occasion.
This event was also an opportunity for students to deepen their understanding and appreciation of Chinese culture. It also aligned with the school’s five guiding philosophies: ethics, wisdom, hygiene, spirit and aesthetics.