Phuket gears up for alcohol-free Songkran at Limelight mall

The bustling town of Phuket is gearing up to host its annual Songkran celebration at the Limelight shopping mall, with officials confirming this year’s event will once again be alcohol-free. Phuket Governor Sophon Suwannarat formally announced the official plans during a recent press conference.

Scheduled to take place on Saturday, April 13, between 4pm to 10pm, the celebration will unfold right in front of the popular shopping venue located on Dibuk Road. This event, free to the public, has consistently upheld an alcohol-free tradition, also known as Songkran No Al, with an exclusive area set aside for water play.

This alcohol prohibition is part of a broader initiative by the Phuket Provincial Administrative Organisation (PPAO) to mitigate potential accident risks during the Songkran Festival.

The conference saw several noteworthy figures in attendance, including Rewat Areerob, President of the PPAO, Letchai Wangtrakuldee, Director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Phuket Office, and Panee Koisomboon, Managing Director of Limelight Phuket, among others.

In addition to the water play, the festival will encourage participants to wear traditional Thai outfits and partake in the respected practice of pouring water over a Buddha statue located at the venue. Furthermore, attendees can look forward to live entertainment provided by the musical band Paradox and local DJs.

Last year’s event attracted a whopping 30,000 people, a figure expected to rise this year, particularly after the Thai New Year Songkran festival was added to UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity List.

UNESCO’s website describes Songkran as a festival that fosters community cooperation, unity, and forgiveness. It is a time to cleanse oneself of misfortunes, pray for the upcoming year’s prosperity, reunite with family, and honour ancestors and elderly adults.

While the festival is intended to be a joyous occasion, strict rules and regulations will be enforced to ensure everyone’s safety. These rules include a complete ban on alcohol, kratom products, cigarettes, e-cigarettes, marijuana, and the use of powder and paint.

Additionally, individuals under the influence of alcohol will not be allowed entry, and no weapons will be permitted on the premises.

In related news, the TAT anticipates Phuket to welcome approximately 264,350 visitors during the Songkran holiday this year, potentially generating a staggering B7 billion in revenue.