Joanna James
The largest island of Thailand, Phuket is a sought-after destination for discerning visitors. Apart from its incredible beaches and lovely bays, many other factors make it an appealing choice for visitors such as the cultural festivals. Witness some of these colourful festivals on your next visit.
With a myriad things to do in Phuket, one must not miss its cultural festivals. The Phuket Old Town Festival takes place in February, with a lively carnival atmosphere prevailing in the heart of the island, the Old Town. The roads are transformed into walking streets with people enjoying the array of food and admiring the performances of graceful dancers. Festivities go on from 3 pm until midnight over several days.
Join the revellers of Chinese New Year festivities in February with the streets full of processions, dragon dancers and traditional processions demonstrating the nation's multicultural harmony and charm on the island of Phuket.
Witness the cultural activities and the traditional ceremonies of the memorial fair that surround the solemn act of paying homage to two heroic figures of Phuket. This interesting fair showcases the history of this island.
This is a traditional and heartening event happening in April as baby turtles are released into the sea as a part of conserving marine life. Visitors eagerly take part in this profound activity offering a safe life for marine creatures.
Held in April each year Songkran is the celebration of Thai New Year and the time of celebration of the bountiful rice harvest. It is also a time to respect your elders and partake of traditional Thai food. In modern times everyone tends to have a merry time together shooting water at each other on the streets with visitors happily joining in.
An annual cultural festival in July each year on Kathu Street this attracts massive crowds. As a small village during ancient times, Kathu village was prominent for tin mining and rice farming. Some of these facts are exhibited during the festivities. Witness the locals attired in traditional garb at this festival. Dress conservatively and enjoy the fun, parades and many Chinese-influenced Thai treats. Getting to Kathu Street is a short drive from properties like Dinso Resort and Villas Phuket.
This festival held in August is also called the Hungry Ghost Festival and is a special event for the ethnic Chinese in Phuket. Special dishes, candles and flowers are offered on altars in memory of ancestors. The streets get decorated and colourful processions are held with Chinese performances.
A fine blend of culture and spiritual devotion can be seen at this festival as street processions include fire walking and acts of self-mortification by those participating during this intriguing festival. These members believe that abstinence from meat and stimulants brings about good health. Held in October each year, this festival is an unforgettable experience.
Attracting a lot of locals and visitors on the Full Moon Day in November each year is the Loy Krathong (meaning floating basket) Festival or the Festival of Lights and Tradition in Thailand. Many artistically decorated tiny baskets are floated on water with a lighted candle to honour the Goddess of Water expressing gratitude and requesting forgiveness for any harm caused during the year.
Happening in December, this is a much-awaited annual event in Phuket when world-class sailing can be witnessed on the waters of Phuket Island. The graceful yachts make a captivating spectacle for locals and visitors who embrace the event with enthusiasm.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
