The festival will be held in Patong from June 1-7 under the theme ‘From Visibility To Equality’, with organisers hoping to elevate Phuket as a leading international Pride destination and support ambitions to one day host World Pride 2030.
The official launch was held at the Jungceylon shopping mall in Patong earlier this week.
Representing Phuket Governor Nirat Pongsitthaworn, Kathu Senior District Clerk Danai Chai-kang presided over the press conference alongside Patong Deputy Mayor Sanakorn Kisin, Southern Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau Director Pattanachai Singhavara, Simon Cabaret Phuket executive Porntep Ruayrin and Andaman Power Association President Supakorn Suwan.
Officials from Patong Police, the Phuket Provincial Social Development and Human Security Office and the Tourism Authority of Thailand Phuket office also attended.
Organisers said the festival reflects cooperation between government agencies, private businesses and LGBTQIN+ community networks to create an open and inclusive society that respects diversity and promotes equal coexistence.
Mr Supakorn stated that the event would help strengthen the island’s image as a safe and welcoming world-class tourism destination for people of all genders, cultures and nationalities, while also stimulating the local economy and tourism sector.
Of note, in different forms, and originating in Patong, Phuket has hosted its Pride festival for 27 years.
Mr Supakorn explained that Phuket Pride originally began as a gathering of the LGBTQ+ community in Patong before evolving into a wider platform supporting human rights campaigns, sexual health awareness and HIV prevention programmes.
He noted that Phuket Pride had also joined the international ‘Pride City Network’.
“This year’s Phuket Pride Festival aims to elevate Thailand’s Pride celebrations to international standards while promoting sustainable equality,” he said.
Vice President of the Andaman Power Association Nopsorn Sittivej said this year’s programme would combine entertainment, sport and academic discussions focused on diversity, equality and safe spaces.
Events include the Phuket Pride Beach Volleyball Competition from May 29-31, Pride Talk Volume III on June 4, and the Miss Queen Andaman Power 2026 contest on June 5 at Jungceylon Shopping Center.
Organisers described the contest as Phuket’s largest TG beauty pageant, with contestants competing to become the 11th ‘Rainbow Pearl of the Andaman’ and represent Phuket Pride activities throughout the coming year.
The festival will conclude on Sunday, June 7, with the colourful Phuket Pride Parade travelling from its traditional route from Ratchaprachanukroh Rd at the southern end of Patong, then along the beach road (Thaweewong Rd) to the heart of the town, Bangla Rd.
Organisers are inviting residents and both Thai and international tourists to join the celebrations in support of equality and diversity.
The closing festivities will also feature a concert by performers from ‘The Voice Pride’, including Peekada Luangpratum, Wuttipong Kham-on, Thapakorn Kongsuwan, Arin Puangpong and Thammarat Yothachul.
Patong Municipality confirmed the event represents cooperation between Phuket Province, Patong Municipality, the Andaman Power Association, Jungceylon Shopping Center, businesses, civil society organisations and LGBTQIN+ networks nationwide in promoting Phuket as a major international Pride destination.