Hey Phuketians,

The island’s weekly sparkle has landed ✨. From sizzling street eats to skies that can’t decide between sunshine and showers, we’ve stitched together the flavors, sights, and vibes you’ll want on your radar. Expect a mix of festival feels, foodie finds, and those little local gems that make Phuket pop.

Ready to dip into what’s cooking (and raining) this week? 🌴☀️💦

If your Phuket dreams involve lazy beach mornings in Bangtao, sundowners in Layan, and a condo that welcomes all your furry (or feathery) friends, Siamese Bangtao should be on your radar. This off-plan project (completion June 2027) brings 272 units wrapped in a resort-style vibe, complete with a rooftop pool, co-working lounges, wellness stack (think onsen + sauna), and even an outdoor cinema.

With one-beds starting at ฿6.39M and roomy duplex options for those who need the extra stretch, it’s positioned squarely in Phuket’s high-demand rental corridor. Add in the rare “pets welcome” policy, and you’ve got a lifestyle (and investment) combo that ticks boxes many others don’t.

🐾 Curious if this could be your Phuket fit? Read more in our feature here: Bangkok condo or Phuket villa — which would you pick?

Rolling Loud Thailand 2025 is officially cancelled! After months of fans waiting to announce the lineup, this year's event is officially cancelled.

Update on New COVID-19 Strain: Thailand has detected 33 cases of the XFG (Stratus) COVID-19 strain. Health officials note symptoms are mild and no hospitalizations have been required, providing a factual, non-alarmist health update for the community 

Thailand’s new tourism minister is setting sights on a 2026 recovery by boosting domestic spending and targeting regional markets, with key focus areas including Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai, and beyond to help the industry bounce back from pandemic setbacks.

Thailand's Senate has rejected a bill to legalize casino resorts, citing major concerns over social harms, economic disruption, and national security. The controversial legislation was proposed by the former Paetongtarn Shinawatra administration.

Trip.com, in partnership with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), has launched the “Go Thailand” campaign to attract more international travelers by offering weekly deals and discounts of up to 50%, making it more affordable to explore the country’s beautiful and diverse regions—from Bangkok to Phuket and beyond.

Mark your calendars: from October 21–29, 2025, Phuket will once again be alive with the sights, sounds, and devotion of the Vegetarian Festival, also known as the Nine Emperor Gods Festival.

Dating back to 1825, the tradition began when a Chinese opera troupe in Phuket adopted a strict vegetarian diet and spiritual rituals, leading to miraculous recovery and a festival of gratitude. Today, it’s one of the island’s most powerful cultural events, blending purification, processions, fire-walking, and temple ceremonies that capture the island’s spirit.

While some rituals—like piercing and fire-walking—are not for the faint of heart, the deeper purpose is renewal: cleansing body, mind, and soul.

Whether you’re observing in reverence, tasting the plant-based street food, or witnessing centuries-old rituals, the festival offers an unforgettable way to connect with Phuket’s heritage.

⛩️ See you this October in Phuket Town and Kathu.

Because Phuket’s famous Vegetarian Festival is just around the corner, this week’s theme is all about plant-based eats that even die-hard meat lovers will adore. If you’re craving Asian flavors with a creative vegan twist, head straight to The Vegan Table on Ratsada Road in Phuket Town.

This cozy spot dishes up everything from fragrant Thai curries to crunchy spring rolls and even global favorites, all 100% vegan. It’s the kind of place where you’ll forget meat was ever on the menu. 🌱 Check them out on Instagram @thevegantable.co for more delicious inspo!

When the Vegetarian Festival hits, sometimes you want a true local experience — no frills, just hearty flavors. That’s exactly what you’ll find at Luk To Vegetarian, tucked along Ranong Road in Phuket Town.

This long-loved jay eatery keeps it simple: a buffet line of mock meats, soups, curries, and stir-fries, all made without garlic or onion. It’s a spot locals know, and a great place to pile up your tray and taste the “everyday side” of Phuket’s vegetarian culture. 🌱 See more on HappyCow.

Here’s one that catches visitors by surprise: e-cigarettes are illegal in Thailand — and not in a “wink-wink, tuck it away” sort of way. We’re talking serious business. Light up a vape in the wrong spot and you could cop a 5,000 baht fine. Bring them into the country? That’s a potential 10 years in the clink and a fine worth five times their value. Even just having one in your bag could land you with prison time and a hefty bill.

So if you’re thinking a quick puff by the pool is harmless — think again, darling. Better to stick with a coconut in your hand and the sea breeze in your lungs. Far safer, far sweeter, and absolutely legal. 🌴

Living in Phuket means you don’t just dive — you tune in to the sea’s seasons. And right now, the ocean’s at her clearest best. October to May is prime time for visibility, with water so crisp it feels like swimming through glass.

So, what’s on the guest list? You’ve got the classics — curious turtles gliding past, clouds of reef fish in every color, and those tiny nudibranchs that look like they were dressed by a rave stylist.

And if the ocean gods are feeling generous? Keep your eyes peeled for a passing pelagic — rays or even the odd shark cruising by. They’re rare, but they do swing through when conditions line up.

In short: from now until May, the underwater show is on full blast. Grab your fins, call your dive buddy, and go see what’s playing beneath the surface. 🌊🦈

If you’ve seen sporty folks whacking what looks like a giant ping-pong ball on a tennis court and wondered, "What in the paddle is that?" — welcome to the world of pickleball. Yes, it's real. Yes, it’s addictive. And yes, Phuket's playing along in full swing.

From casual drop-ins in Rawai to courts where things get surprisingly competitive, there’s a little pickle for every level — whether you're a curious beginner or low-key training for the Senior Olympics. Bonus? Great way to work off that Wilson’s carrot cake. (Just saying.)

📍Courts, prices, vibes, and where not to wear sandals — it’s all in here:
👉 Read the full scoop on Pickleball in Phuket

Friday Fight Night
Don’t miss the excitement of Muay Thai matches.
⏰ 21:00 | 📍 Rawai Boxing Stadium | Rawai

Beyond Chicago at Armania Phuket
An electrifying performance by international DJs, Beyond Chicago!
⏰ 22:00–23:30 | 📍 Armania Phuket | Kathu

Oktoberfest 2025 at Champs Bar
Enjoy German food, beer, and live music in celebration of Oktoberfest.
⏰ 14:00–23:30 | 📍 Champs Bar | Patong

Kids Market – Milk Tooth Market (Day 1)
A fun-filled market with kids' activities like plaster painting, fish feeding, a mini kitchen, and a balloon clown!
⏰ 17:00 onwards | 📍 Chillva Market | Ratsada, Old Town

TOPS 'Together Our Planet Shines' Beach Cleanup
Join the community to help clean up Rawai Beach with fun activities.
⏰ 08:00 | 📍 Rawai Beach | Rawai

Courage Bar’s Musical World Night
A five-hour musical marathon with world-class DJ sets.
⏰ 22:00 | 📍 Courage Bar | Old Town

BCIS Phuket Open Day
Discover the joy of learning at BCIS Phuket.
⏰ 09:00 | 📍 BCIS Phuket | Chalong

Apollo Fight Night XVI
Witness thrilling Muay Thai fights with an exciting lineup.
⏰ 18:00 | 📍 Radisson RED | Patong

Kids Market – Milk Tooth Market (Day 2)
A fun-filled market with kids' activities like plaster painting, fish feeding, a mini kitchen, and a balloon clown!
⏰ 17:00 onwards | 📍 Chillva Market | Ratsada, Old Town

Bangtao Beach Market @ Hugo Hub Phuket
A vibrant market with local vendors, live DJ, sunset vibes, and a fire show!
⏰ 15:00 onwards | 📍 Hugo Hub Phuket | Bangtao Beach

Family Festival at La Green
A fun family day with workshops, live animation, games, and more.
⏰ 12:00–18:00 | 📍 La Green Hotel & Residence | Cherngtalay

Prego’s Pizza Party for Little Chefs
Let the kids enjoy making their own pizzas in a fun, hands-on class.
⏰ 13:00–15:00 | 📍 Prego Kata | Kata

Wonder Lab Kids Festival
A thrilling science adventure for kids at Rawai Park.
⏰ 14:00–16:00 | 📍 Rawai Park | Rawai

My Front Yard Art Club – Free Watercolor Lesson
A free watercolor lesson at My Front Yard’s main courtyard.
⏰ 16:00–18:00 | 📍 My Front Yard | Wichit

Raccoon Trick-or-Treat Pickleball Open
A Halloween-themed pickleball tournament, costumes are encouraged!
⏰ 13:00–evening | 📍 The Peak Racquet Park | Thalang

Oktoberfest Celebration at Dewa Phuket Resort
Savor Bavarian food & authentic German beer for Oktoberfest.
⏰ 1 Oct to 5 Oct, 10:00–23:00 | 📍 Dewa Phuket Resort | Thalang

Pet Paradise Camping 2025
A family-friendly event featuring activities with pets.
⏰ 26 Sept – 5 Oct | 📍 Robinson Lifestyle | Thalang

Yoga & Coffee – Daily Dose Alchemy
Morning yoga sessions with a coffee included.
⏰ Every Wed & Fri, 08:30–09:30 | 📍 Daily Dose Alchemy | Cherngtalay

Quiz Night – Green Man Pub
Join the weekly pub quiz for a fun night out.
⏰ Every Thursday, 20:00 | 📍 Greenman Pub | Chalong

Tann Beach Club – Sunset Session
Enjoy DJ sets and a nightly fire show.
⏰ Every Sunday | 📍 Tann Beach Club | Kata

Barra Cuda Phuket – House of Paradise
Escape to the beach for live music and party vibes every Sunday.
⏰ Every Sunday from 14:00 | 📍 Barra Cuda Beach Club | Patong

Premier League Live
Catch the live Premier League matches every weekend.
⏰ Every Sat & Sun | 📍 Islander Sports Bar | Rawai

Leprechaun Tuesday at The Drunken Leprechaun Phuket
Enjoy live music, beer buckets, and beer & burger specials every Tuesday!
⏰ Every Tuesday 20:00–23:00 | 📍 Radisson Red Phuket | Patong

Gin & Beats at Groov Phuket
Celebrate Thursdays with Hendrick’s gin and beats.
⏰ Every Thursday, 20:00–late | 📍 Groov Gastrobar | Rawai

Latin House at Groov Phuket
Dance to Latin House beats every Friday night.
⏰ Every Friday, 20:00–late | 📍 Groov Gastrobar | Rawai

Oktoberfest at Selina Phuket Beach Club
Buy 1 Get 1 Free on Thai beers, and a live BBQ station on Oct 5th (12-15pm)!
⏰ 3-5 Oct, All Day | 📍 Selina Phuket Beach Club | Rawai

Got a beach party, workshop, open mic, or community jam?
Tell us about it and we might feature it → Submit here

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And that’s this week’s dose of island sparkle from Phuket Community 🌺. Maybe you’ve found a new café to nibble at, a reef to dive, or just a reason to linger a little longer at sunset.

💌 Got a tip, a pic, or a hidden nook we should know about? Hit reply or tag @phuketcommunity_com — we love sharing the Phuket you see.

Till next time, keep your toes sandy, your scooter tank full, and your heart wide open to this little rock we call home. See you out there 🌴☀️