At 1:30pm yesterday (Mar 4), Vice Governor Suwit Phansengiam chaired the second committee meeting for the 2026 commemoration at Phuket Provincial Hall, reviewing progress and confirming preparations for activities to be held from Mar 7-21.
The annual festival honours the heroism of Thao Thep Krasattri and Thao Sri Srisoonthorn, who led the defence of Thalang against Burmese forces in 1785, as well as the bravery of local residents who fought alongside them.
Officials said this year’s programme aims not only to pay tribute to the island’s revered heroines and the ancestors of Thalang, but also to further strengthen Phuket’s cultural tourism potential by elevating the historical commemoration into a major provincial cultural event.
Events will take place at several key historical and religious sites, including Wat Thep Wanaram (Wat Manik), the Buddhist Park at Wat Muang Komarapat, the Heroines Monument and the Thalang Memorial Park (also called the Thalang Victory Park) in Bang Riang.
One of the main activities will be a mass ordination ceremony dedicated to the brave ancestors of Thalang, to be held from March 7-21 at Wat Manik. As of this week, 33 participants had registered to join the ordination programme.
Traditional cultural activities will also feature prominently. A community event to make and wrap the local sweet ‘kalamae’ is scheduled for March 10-11 at the Buddhist Park of Wat Muang Komarapat, highlighting Phuket’s culinary heritage.
On Mar 12, merit-making ceremonies and a formal homage to the ancestors of Thalang will be held in both the morning and afternoon. This will be followed on Mar 13 by a wreath-laying ceremony and a commemoration of heroism at the Heroines Monument and the Thalang Memorial Park.
Ceremonies to raise the national flag, the Thalang Victory Flag and the Friendship for Peace Flag are set for Mar 9 and again on Mar 13, underscoring themes of unity and remembrance.
A major highlight of this year’s programme is the expanded light and sound historical drama, to be staged from Mar 13-16 at the Thalang Memorial Park. As previously reported, the production has been extended from three to four days and will feature an upgraded, more contemporary presentation format.
Organised by the Phuket Provincial Administrative Organisation in collaboration with the Phuket Provincial Office, the show will dramatise the events of 1785 under the title ‘Ya Chan – Ya Muk: Nine Heroes of Thalang’.
The production recounts the leadership of Thao Thep Kasattri (Ya Chan) and Thao Sri Srisoonthorn (Ya Muk), while also paying tribute to seven additional historical figures remembered for their roles in defending Thalang. Organisers have said the storyline reflects the bravery, unity and multicultural character of the community at the time.
This year’s performances will incorporate large-scale LED screen technology to enhance visual effects and audience engagement. In addition to the nightly drama, cultural performances, concerts and more than 300 stalls selling local food and OTOP products will create a festival atmosphere aimed at stimulating the local economy.
Officials at yesterday’s meeting also reviewed logistical preparations. Relevant agencies reported readiness in providing electricity and water supplies, medical teams and first-aid units, traffic management, security and public relations support across multiple media channels.
Vice Governor Suwit said the integrated cooperation between government offices and local organisations reflects a shared commitment to preserving Phuket’s historical legacy while strengthening its role as a driver of sustainable cultural tourism.
The annual commemoration is regarded as one of Phuket’s most significant provincial traditions, reinforcing local pride and historical awareness among younger generations while welcoming visitors from across Thailand and abroad.
All main events and performances are open to the public. Authorities have encouraged residents and tourists to attend and take part in commemorating the courage and sacrifice of the Heroines of Thalang.
https://www.thephuketnews.com/phuket-finalises-preparations-for-2026-heroines-festival-99458.php
