Phuket is gearing up to host the Kebaya Festival from August 9–10, 2025, right in the heart of Old Town and Suan Luang (King’s Park). As part of the Phuket Creative City Festival, it spotlights the island’s rich Peranakan (Baba-Nyonya) heritage through a lively mix of fashion, food, and performances.
What’s on the Agenda?
Expect workshops, exhibits, parades, and more! The early events include:
-
Jul 2–3: Peranakan shoe embroidery workshop
-
Jul 19: ‘Children Take Mother Wen’ cultural activity & photo contest
-
Jul 24–25: Baba jewellery-making workshop
The main festivities from Aug 9–10 feature a grand kebaya parade, fashion shows, cultural zones, and a food festival serving creative Andaman-inspired cuisine.
Here’s a clear breakdown:
| Date | Event Description |
|---|---|
| Jul 2–3 | Embroidery workshop – hands-on Peranakan shoe design |
| Jul 19 | Mother Wen kids’ event + kebaya-themed photo contest |
| Jul 24–25 | Jewellery-making workshop – craft your own Baba accessories |
| Aug 9–10 | Festival hit: parade, fashion, food, music & cultural zones |
Why It Matters to Phuket
Phuket joined UNESCO’s Creative Cities Network (Gastronomy), and with UNESCO’s 2023 recognition of the kebaya dress, this festival supports cultural preservation, Creative Tourism, and boosts the local economy. Phuket Governor Sophon Suwannarat noted the event will reinforce local identity, promote sustainable tourism, and empower community businesses.
More Than Just Pretty Dress
Beyond the colorful outfits, this festival celebrates shared roots between Thai, Chinese, and Malay cultures— woven together through fabric, food, and community spirit. Expect engaging seminars, batik fashion shows, live performances, and local artisan stalls bringing these traditions to life .
The Festival’s Wider Impact
This event is part of Phuket’s plan to position itself as the global center for Peranakan celebrations. Past editions saw 2,000+ performers, 15,000+ visitors, and over 400 million baht in economic impact. This year also includes a dazzling world-record attempt: cooking Phuket-style Hokkien Mee with 200+ chefs.
Conclusion
The 2025 Phuket Kebaya Festival is more than just an event—it’s a living canvas of cultural identity, economic opportunity, and creative tourism. Whether you’re drawn by the kaleidoscope of kebaya garments, hands-on workshops, mouth-watering Peranakan cuisine, or public parades, expect to leave with your heart full and your curiosity sparked.