The essentials
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Date | Saturday 6 February 2027 |
| Eve | 5 February: family dinner |
| Where | Phuket old town, Thalang Road, Chinese shrines |
| Festival 2027 | dates to confirm |
| Crowds | strong; hotels and boats fuller |
| Weather | dry season, 30 to 33 °C |
Where to go
- Old town: Thalang and Phang Nga streets decorated with red lanterns and evening markets according to one guide consulted. See the old town and the old town guide.
- Shrines: Jui Tui, where New Year ceremonies are held according to one guide, and Bang Neow. Free entry; cover up and be discreet during prayers.
- Sunday market: the Lard Yai market on Sunday, if the festival falls on a weekend.
- Other places: one guide also names the Kathu shrine, among the oldest on the island.
For 2026, sources described a 40-metre fire dragon tunnel on Thepkrasattri Road: nothing is confirmed for 2027.
Tips
- Come early in the morning or late in the afternoon: afternoons are hot.
- Offerings and ceremonies are not a show: photograph discreetly.
- Some shops run by Sino-Thai families may close on the day of the festival: check before going.
- Book hotel and boats early: see where to stay in Phuket.
Combine with an excursion
The sea is calm and the islands accessible: Phi Phi from Phuket, Racha and Coral and Phang Nga. See also Phuket in February.
Activities that sell at this time
- Guided tour of the old town: half a day, with a guide to understand the shrines.
- Old town street food tasting: early evening.
- Phi Phi, Maya and Bamboo: the most booked for a day at sea.
- Big Buddha and old town: see the guided tour.
FAQ
When is Chinese New Year in 2027?
Saturday 6 February 2027.
Is there a festival in the old town?
Usually yes, but the 2027 dates are not published. Confirm them before booking.
Is Phuket more expensive during this period?
Often: hotels fill up, compare precise dates.
