Provincial officials this week presented plans for ‘Songkran No Alcohol Phuket 2026’ festival, which will be held on Apr 13 from 4pm to 10pm along Dibuk Rd in Phuket Old Town.
The event aims to provide a safe and family-friendly environment for celebrating Songkran while reducing risks associated with alcohol consumption during the annual holiday.
Phuket Governor Nirat Pongsitthaworn discussed preparations at a meeting held this week at Phuket Provincial Hall with tourism officials, cultural representatives and private sector partners.
The meeting heard a briefing from Somchai Semmanee, who outlined activities planned under the concept ‘Enjoying Traditional Thai Activities, Returning Home Safely’.
Organisers say the festival will focus on traditional cultural elements alongside entertainment designed to attract both Thai and international visitors.
Planned activities include the traditional bathing of Buddha images, the respectful pouring of water over elders’ hands and public water-splashing zones, along with musical performances by well-known artists to add to the atmosphere.
Officials said the event is intended to balance cultural traditions with tourism promotion while maintaining a safe environment for participants of all ages.
The alcohol-free Songkran celebration was first organised in 2012 at Limelight Market in Phuket Town. Since then, the event has expanded and moved to its current location in the historic Old Town area.
Now entering its 12th year, the festival has steadily grown in popularity among both residents and visitors.
Organisers estimate that the event last year attracted more than 51,000 participants, including over 12,000 international tourists.
Provincial officials say maintaining the alcohol-free policy has been key to the event’s success. By limiting alcohol consumption, organisers aim to reduce the likelihood of accidents and conflicts often associated with large Songkran gatherings.
The format also encourages families, children and elderly residents to take part in the celebrations in a more inclusive environment.
Beyond safety considerations, the festival has become an important platform for promoting contemporary Thai culture while generating income for small businesses in Phuket Town.
Local vendors, restaurants and tourism operators are expected to benefit from increased visitor numbers during the celebrations.
The initiative has also received national recognition in the past. The project has previously won the ‘Stop Drink Award’ and other honours related to alcohol consumption control from Thailand’s Ministry of Public Health.
Tourism authorities have also recommended the event as one of Thailand’s notable Songkran celebrations and as a potential venue within the nationwide Maha Songkran World Water Festival programme promoted by the Tourism Authority of Thailand.
Governor Nirat emphasised during the meeting that careful organisation and clear safety measures would be essential to ensure the festival’s success.
He described Songkran as a “massive event” capable of attracting large crowds and generating economic benefits if managed properly.
By ensuring orderly management, maintaining safety standards and promoting a positive image of Phuket, officials hope the event will strengthen tourist confidence while boosting the island’s economy during the Thai New Year period.