History of Phuket: Trade, Tin and Tourism
An introduction to Phuket’s history through maritime trade, the Battle of Thalang, tin mining, migration, Old Town and the growth of tourism.
Phuket Por Tor Festival
Phuket’s Por Tor Festival, also known as the Hungry Ghost Festival, is a Hokkien Chinese tradition centred on ancestor remembrance, food offerings and shrine ceremonies. Red turtle cakes called ang ku are its best-known local symbol. Dates follow the Chinese lunar calendar and must be confirmed each year. Por Tor is one of Phuket’s most […]
Loy Krathong in Phuket
Loy Krathong in Phuket is celebrated on the full moon of the twelfth Thai lunar month, usually in November. People float small krathongs decorated with leaves, flowers, candles and incense as an act of gratitude and renewal. Local venues, safety rules and environmental restrictions must be checked each year. Loy Krathong is celebrated across Phuket […]
Loy Ruea Festival of the Urak Lawoi
Loy Ruea means “Float the Boat” and is a living Urak Lawoi community tradition held around the sixth and eleventh lunar months. A village builds one ceremonial boat representing its families, ancestors and hopes for protection and renewal. Dates and arrangements for visitors must be confirmed locally each year. Loy Ruea is one of the […]
Songkran in Phuket
Songkran marks the Thai New Year and is celebrated in Phuket from 13 April. Public water fights are the festival’s most visible feature, but its older traditions centre on family reunions, temple visits, merit-making, cleaning and showing respect to elders. Songkran is one of Thailand’s most important annual celebrations. In Phuket, the streets may fill […]
Phuket Vegetarian Festival
The Phuket Vegetarian Festival is a nine-day Hokkien Chinese religious observance held during the ninth lunar month, usually in September or October. It centres on shrine ceremonies, purification, vegetarian food, street processions and rituals performed by Ma Song spirit mediums. Dates and procession routes change each year. The Phuket Vegetarian Festival is one of the […]
Phuket Thai Hua Museum
Phuket’s museums and cultural attractions help explain the island beyond its beaches. The old WOP material is strongest on Phuket Thai Hua Museum and the island’s Chinese-Phuket heritage, while practical details require current checking.