Events and activities in the upcoming Samui Festival

According to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), the festival will kick off in the afternoon of 13 September, with a carnival procession of elaborately decorated floats along with a showcase of local arts and crafts, as well as cultural performances.

The parade will march through the island’s landmarks and will conclude at Phru Chaweng Park. It will be followed by the grand opening ceremony at 17.30 hr, to be presided over by Prime Minister General Prayut Chan-o-cha.

Moreover, the Nathon stage will host the Samui Singing Awards 2019, where contestants will compete for 150,000 baht in total prize money.

These will be the finalists in the contest, which is open to the public and for which entries are being accepted up until 7 September.

On the morning of 14 September, there will be a merit-making ceremony at all temples across the island. Tourists are invited to observe or join the activities at Wat Sawang Arom and Wat Bo Phuttharam in Bo Phut subdistrict between 09.00-12.00 hr.

For an immersive cultural experience, tourists are recommended to wear traditional costumes, such as lace blouse with standing collar and Pateh sarong.

Throughout the six days, live music and folk performances will be a big attraction at this festival. The cultural performances comprise those unique to southern Thailand, including Nang Talung shadow puppetry and Nora dance drama, plus contemporary shows.

The live music concert features an impressive line-up of Thai pop singers and bands set to entertain audiences on two stages at Nathon Market and Phru Chaweng, from 18.00 hr until late at night.

For sports enthusiasts, 15 September is the day to enjoy or take part in two amazing sporting events. The Samui Festival Marathon and Trail 2019 comprises of a 5-km Fun Run, 10.5-km Mini Marathon, 21-km Half Marathon and 35-km Running Trail, which start and finish at Hin Lat Waterfall in Nathon. Meanwhile, the Tour of Samui Festival 2019 cycling race offers trophy and prize money worth over 200,000 baht.

Other activities include a Food Street, Art Lane, and OTOP Fair. On 18 September, a free buffet dinner will amaze the taste buds of one and all, with an array of food and beverages stretching from Chaweng Beach to Hua Thanon Bay starting at 17.00 hr.

Thai boxing fans will also enjoy the nightly Muay Thai matches from 13-18 September, at the Wharf Samui in Bo Phut.