Phuket –
On August 31st, 2026, at 5:30 p.m., Phuket Deputy Governor Romdon Hayiawa presided over the opening ceremony of the annual Por Tor (Hungry Ghost) Festival at Por Tor Kong Bang Neaw. The event was held at the Queen Sirikit 72nd Birthday Park—known locally as Dragon Square on Thalang Road.
A lively parade was released from Dragon Square, winding through Phuket Road toward the shrine, greeted enthusiastically by crowds along the route.
Deputy Governor Romdon explained the festival’s deep cultural significance:
- It embodies gratitude to ancestors and benefactors, reinforcing respect for heritage and family bonds.
- It reflects the unity of diverse communities, as people from different backgrounds join hands to sustain traditions.
- It serves as a living classroom for younger generations, ensuring cultural roots remain strong.
He praised the teamwork between the municipality, organizing committees, cultural networks, and local residents, noting that the festival is not only a celebration but also a social capital that strengthens Phuket’s identity.
“Traditions endure not simply because they are celebrated each year, but because communities work together to preserve their meaning and pass them on,” Romdon said. “Por Tor is a space of love, gratitude, and unity.”
Phuket, he added, is a multicultural province where people of different ethnicities, religions, and traditions coexist. Respecting diversity while safeguarding cultural heritage is key to building a resilient society and enhancing Phuket’s appeal as a vibrant tourism destination.
The Por Tor Festival at Bang Neaw Shrine runs from August 31 to September 10, 2026, featuring parades, rituals, and community activities that honor ancestors while showcasing Phuket’s unique cultural charm.
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