Held across Phuket Old Town, the festival transformed key historic streets including Thalang Rd, Yaowarat Rd, Phang Nga Rd and Chartered Bank Intersection into a sprawling cultural stage, drawing large crowds of residents and tourists.
The opening ceremony was presided over by Vice Governor Suwit Phansengiam, alongside Phuket Provincial Administration Organisation (PPAO) President Rewat Areerob, Phuket Town Deputy Mayor Pibulsak Kittithorakun, and Peranakan Association of Thailand President Anchalee Wanich Thepbutr.
Now in its fourth year, the festival is jointly organised by Phuket Province in collaboration with government agencies, private sector partners and cultural networks, with the aim of promoting Phuket’s unique Peranakan identity on the international stage.
A major highlight of the opening day was the ‘BLOOM’ International Grand Parade, which wound its way through the streets of the Old Town, attracting enthusiastic crowds who lined the route.
The parade featured performers from more than eight countries, including Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, India, Vietnam, China and South Korea. Participants showcased a rich blend of traditional and contemporary Peranakan culture through elaborate costumes, music and dance.
The procession also reflected Phuket’s long-standing multicultural roots, with elements ranging from elegant Peranakan dance to the unexpected inclusion of a Scottish bagpipe troupe, adding a distinctive international flair.
Officials said the parade symbolised the “blooming” of cultural exchange across Asia and beyond, reinforcing Phuket’s position as a global cultural destination.
As night fell, crowds gathered in the heart of the Old Town for a headline performance by Thai pop star Kratae Rsiam, whose high-energy show became one of the evening’s standout moments.
Taking to the stage before a packed audience, Kratae delivered a dynamic set blending her signature contemporary style with the festive atmosphere. Her performance drew loud cheers and audience participation, with many spectators capturing the moment on their phones.
Organisers said the inclusion of modern entertainment alongside traditional cultural displays was designed to broaden the festival’s appeal, particularly among younger visitors.
Building on the ‘Bloom’ concept, this year’s festival expands its international scope with full-scale cultural exchanges involving countries across Asia, while also incorporating Western elements to highlight Phuket’s diverse heritage.
Officials emphasised that the festival plays a key role in promoting Thailand’s “soft power”, while supporting the creative economy and sustainable tourism.
“The Phuket Peranakan Festival reflects the identity of Phuket and demonstrates strong cooperation across all sectors,” organisers noted, adding that it also helps position the island as a world-class cultural city.
Phuket Province has invited both residents and visitors to take part in the festivities, encouraging them to experience the richness of Peranakan culture and contribute to the island’s growing reputation on the global stage.