Bangkok, 27 December, 2019 – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), in conjunction with Phatthalung province, is pleased to invite local and international tourists to take part in the ‘Amazing Thailand Countdown 2020 at Phatthalung’ celebration, during 30-31 December, 2019, from 16.00-24.00 Hrs. at the Coliseum Intersection, Phatthalung province.
“TAT expects the Amazing Thailand Countdown 2020 at Phatthalung to welcome about 6,000 Thai and foreign visitors, and help boost approximately 16 million Baht for the local economy.”
Mr. Noppadon Pakprot, TAT Deputy Governor for Domestic Marketing
The countdown event in Phatthalung is part of TAT’s traditional festivities in six emerging destinations, which also include Sukhothai, Kalasin, Lop Buri, Ratchaburi, and Sa Kaeo. More details here.
Highlights at the Phatthalung Countdown include two days of music concerts, traditional ‘golden mortar’ circle dance activities, lucky draws and games, and cooking shows of local delicacies; such as, fried fish roe, a range of food made from Phatthalung’s famous giant freshwater prawn, and ‘saku ton’ – a starchy traditional dessert specially made from sago palm and unique to Phatthalung only. There is also a fair with 30 shops and stalls promoting and selling local handicrafts and Thai cuisine; such as, basketry and bags from local sea grass or Krachut (found a plenty in Phatthalung’s Thale Noi Lake), and colourful Norah beaded accessories.
The opening ceremony on 30 December, 2019, features a colourful carnival of the ‘Norah Parade’ (Phatthalung is the birthplace of Southern Thailand’s Norah folk dance tradition), a shadow puppet parade, the legend of the Khao Talu parade, and a number of other vibrant parades. There is also a Christmas Tree made from local materials (a giant fishing net and Norah beads, which after the two-day event will be given to fishing boats in Thale Noi Lake and Norah Rong Khru (worshipping to gurus of Nora), respectively. There is also an eight-metre-long illumination tunnel decorated with Norah beads.
The countdown celebration on 31 December, 2019, features laser projection lights of Phatthalung’s landmarks and symbols including the red lotus lake and a herd of water buffaloes. Other activities include the Norah folk dance, Pone drum performance, illumination tunnel and fireworks displays.
New Year’s Day 2020 starts with a mass merit-making ceremony of Buddhist alms offering plus a CSR opportunity donating cleaning tools and equipment to the Phatthalung Municipal Office.
