Experience Lunar New Year in Phuket

Lunar New Year, also known as Chinese New Year, is one of the most vibrant and meaningful festivals in Phuket. With a long-established Chinese community, the island comes alive with red lanterns, incense smoke, colourful decorations, and traditional performances during this auspicious period.

For travellers, Lunar New Year in Phuket offers a unique opportunity to experience local culture, visit historic shrines, enjoy festive cuisine, and celebrate the New Year in a tropical setting.

Visit Chinese Shrines in Phuket Town

Phuket Town is the heart of Lunar New Year celebrations. Many visitors begin their day by visiting Chinese shrines to pay respects, pray for good fortune, and soak in the festive atmosphere.

* Thank you beautiful pictures from PHUKET E-MAGAZINE! by Tourism Authority of Thailand, Phuket Office. 

Jui Tui Shrine

One of the most famous shrines in Phuket, Jui Tui Shrine becomes especially lively during Lunar New Year. You will see devotees offering incense, fruits, and symbolic foods while colourful decorations fill the temple grounds.

Bang Neow Shrine

Located near Phuket Old Town, Bang Neow Shrine is another important spiritual site, known for its beautiful architecture and strong community presence during Chinese festivals.

Lim Hu Tai Su Shrine (Sam Kong Shrine)

A quieter option for those seeking a more peaceful experience, this shrine offers a calm space for prayer and reflection.

Tip: Dress respectfully, wear comfortable clothing, and expect larger crowds in the mornings.

Explore Phuket Old Town’s Festive Streets

After visiting the shrines, take time to explore Phuket Old Town. During Lunar New Year, the streets are decorated with red lanterns and festive ornaments, creating a cheerful and photogenic atmosphere.

You may also encounter:

• Cultural shows and live music
• Street food stalls selling Chinese-style snacks and sweets
• Local shops offering festive decorations and lucky charms

It’s a wonderful way to experience the Phuket Chinese festival spirit.

What to Eat During Lunar New Year in Phuket

Food plays a central role in Lunar New Year celebrations, with many dishes symbolising prosperity, happiness, and longevity.

Popular festive dishes include:

• Roast duck and roast pork
• Steamed whole fish (symbol of abundance)
• Longevity noodles
• Dumplings and spring rolls
• Sweet desserts such as sesame balls and Chinese cakes

Many restaurants across Phuket offer special Lunar New Year menus or buffets during this period.

End Your Day with a Lunar New Year Buffet Night at Paradox Phuket

After a day of cultural exploration, enjoy a relaxed evening by the pool with a Lunar New Year Buffet Night at Paradox Phuket, located on the peaceful shores of Karon Beach.

The buffet features a generous selection of Chinese-inspired dishes alongside international favourites, allowing guests to enjoy both traditional flavours and familiar comfort food in one setting.

Highlights typically include:

• Wok-fried noodles and rice dishes
• Dim sum and festive appetisers
• BBQ “Mala” Selection
• Roasted whole duck with Chinese herbs
• Hangzhou-style fried rice with prawns
• Hokkien-style stir-fried noodles (Live Station)
• Festive desserts

Set in an open-air tropical atmosphere, the dining experience is complemented by gentle sea breezes on 17 February 2026.

Celebrate Lunar New Year Atmosphere at Paradox Phuket

This Lunar New Year, Paradox Phuket embraces the festive spirit with elegant Chinese New Year–inspired décor across the resort. From the lobby to the lush garden areas, red lanterns and auspicious details create a warm, joyful atmosphere and an ideal backdrop for photos.

To add an extra touch of tradition, guests checking in during the celebration period will also have the chance to participate in a Red Envelope (Hong Bao) Lucky Draw. Each red envelope contains a special surprise or resort voucher, offering a fun and meaningful way to welcome the New Year with a little extra luck.

Combined with the tranquil beachfront setting of Karon Beach, these festive touches allow guests to enjoy Lunar New Year in Phuket in a relaxed and memorable way, without needing to travel far from their resort.

Where to Stay for Lunar New Year in Phuket

Staying in Karon Beach provides a perfect balance between easy access to Phuket Town and a more relaxed seaside environment. The area is well known for its long sandy beach, sunset views, and family-friendly atmosphere.

Paradox Phuket offers spacious accommodation with a variety of room types, beachfront access, dining venues, a range of leisure facilities, and Chinese speaking staff, making it a comfortable base for travellers visiting during Chinese New Year.

Make Lunar New Year in Phuket a Meaningful Holiday

From visiting historic Chinese shrines and exploring Old Phuket Town to enjoying festive dining by the beach and participating in traditional lucky draw activities, Lunar New Year in Phuket is a beautiful blend of culture and tropical relaxation.

Whether you are travelling as a couple, with family, or with friends, celebrating Lunar New Year in Phuket promises a memorable start to the year filled with colour, flavour, and good fortune.