The annual festival, a significant cultural and historical event for Phuket, honours the heroism of Thao Thep Krasattri and Thao Sri Soonthorn, two sisters who defended Thalang from Burmese invaders in 1785.
The schedule for the festival was confirmed at a meeting on Thursday (Feb 6), led by Phuket Governor Sophon Suwannarat, held to discuss preparations for the annual festival.
The meeting, at Phuket Provincial Hall, was attended by key figures, including religious leaders such as Phra Athikarn Sitthachwich Supatipanno, Abbot of Wat Phra Nang Sang in Thalang.
The festival will begin with a Group Ordination Ceremony at Wat Thep Wanaram (Wat Manik) on Mar 8, starting at 7am, allowing participants to study Dharma and dedicate merit to their ancestors.
Other key dates for this year’s festival confirmed include:
- Mar 8-11: Local Bai Sri Learning Center activities at the Buddhist Garden of Wat Muang Komanraphat on Baan Riang Rd.
- Mar 9: A flag-raising ceremony at Ban Tha Noon, Phang Nga Province, at 6:09am, featuring the National Flag, Thalang Victory Flag and the ‘Friendship Flag of Peace’.
- Mar 10-11: Traditional Kalamae stirring and candy wrapping activities.
- Mar 13: Wreath-laying and heroism tribute ceremonies at 8:09am at the Heroines Monument and at 7:30am at the Thalang Victory Monument at Victory Field in Thalang.
- Mar 13-15: A special light and sound show and historical drama at the Thalang City Memorial from 7:30-9:30pm., along with cultural performances, local food stalls and exhibitions showcasing Phuket’s rich heritage.
Governor Sophon emphasised the importance of preserving this tradition and ensuring that future generations continue to honour the legacy of Thao Thep Krasattri and Thao Sri Soonthorn.
He said he expected a respectful and engaging festival that reflected the bravery and cultural significance of Phuket’s two historical figures.