Chinese New Year in Phuket

Chinese New Year fell on 19 February this year marking the final day of the last month in the Chinese Lunar Calendar.

Bidding farewell to the Year of the Horse and welcoming in the Year of the Goat, celebrations during this festive period are spirited and vibrant in Chinese communities across the world and Phuket’s observance of this holiday is equally as engaging.

In Phuket, celebrations will occur between 15 and 17 February and will coincide with the Old Phuket Festival, which will take place in the Sino-Portuguese area of town.

Each evening from 18:00, Dibuk Road, Krabi Road, Phang Nga Road and Thalang Road will be closed to all traffic to make way for an assortment of performances and street stalls set up in honour of both events.

Daily tours of Chinese Taoist shrines in Phuket town are also on offer during this time of year, as well as the chance to learn about the culinary art of creating some of Thailand’s famous sweets.

A treat for the senses, revellers can enjoy lively dragon dance displays, the sounds of traditional music and tasty snacks served by an array of street food vendors.

A collection of colourful processions will be accompanied by the sound of firecrackers set off to ward off evil spirits and welcome the birth of a new year.

Although Chinese New Year is not a public holiday in Thailand, the ceremonial activities held in its honour represent its importance on the island. Gung Hay Fat Choy!

Chinese New Year varies each year depending on the Chinese Lunar Calendar.