Phuket parade: Carnival rolls out beach carpet for tourists (video)
Phuket is gearing up to roll out the red carpet for tourists worldwide with the eagerly anticipated Phuket Carnival at Patong 2024. This annual spectacle, a hallmark of the island’s high tourist season, promises to be bigger and better than ever with its theme, Phuket Memories of a Lifetime.
Taking place from December 8 to 10 at the bustling Bang La grounds next to Patong Beach, the carnival kicks off at 10am and promises three days of vibrant festivities. With over 30 dazzling parades, the event is set to be a magnet for tourists, as Lalita Maneesiri, Patong Deputy Mayor, proudly states.
The parade lineup features contributions from major players in Patong’s business sector, including big names like Jungceylon Shopping Centre, Central Patong, Phuket FantaSea, Simon Cabaret, and the Andaman Phuket Water Park.
Entertainment will span musical events and much more, with the grandest parade stretching over 2 kilometres, planned for December 8, according to Deputy Mayor Nasakorn Keesin.
With a predicted boost of at least 100 million baht to the area’s tourism income over the three-day extravaganza, Patong is set to benefit significantly from the carnival. Historically, this vibrant part of Phuket attracts between 5 to 7 million visitors annually, raking in a staggering 500 million baht per day in tourism revenue.
Ensuring the safety of its visitors, Patong is one of Thailand’s safest destinations, boasting over 10,000 lifeguards patrolling its pristine beaches daily. Ahead of the high season, additional CCTV cameras have been installed to maintain security and peace of mind for all who visit.
Kong-ek-adul Chuthong, the Phuket Deputy Governor, emphasises that December is the prime time to visit the island, with tourism numbers on a steady rise since the start of the year.
Praising Patong’s allure, he highlights its stunning beaches, natural beauty, and an array of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
“We aim to impress our visitors so much that they can’t resist coming back again and again.”
The carnival will also showcase locally made products and folk art, boosting the local economy and preserving cultural heritage.
With accommodation options ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels, Thipchalita Sirithawirat, president of the Patong Hotel Association, reports bookings are already locked in for 2025, underscoring Phuket’s year-round appeal, reported Bangkok Post.
Nightlife thrives with extended hours at Patong’s nightspots, contributing to a 20% to 30% business income increase.
As Wirawit Khreausombat, President of Patong’s Club of Entertainment Business operators, points out, the government’s pro-tourism policies are yielding tangible benefits.
“Come to Patong. We all are looking forward to welcoming you.”
Following the carnival, Patong will usher in the new year with its extravagant countdown event, from December 30 to New Year’s Day. This year’s grand surprise includes a performance by top DJ 22Bullets on December 30, a highlight sponsored by local businesses.
With an exciting mix of entertainment and tradition, Phuket Carnival at Patong 2024 is not to be missed—it promises a spectacle to remember, whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning fan of this beautiful Thai paradise.
