Bangkok: The atmosphere of the Yaowarat Chinese New Year celebrations is lively this year, with a significant emphasis on reducing the use of incense sticks to help combat PM 2.5 dust pollution. Meanwhile, in Phitsanulok Province, Thai-Chinese families dressed in red gathered to worship the gods, seeking good fortune to mark the start of the Chinese New Year.
According to Thai News Agency, this morning's festivities in Yaowarat saw most residents setting up tables in front of their homes to honor ancestors with offerings of meat, sweet and savory foods, fruits, and the traditional burning of gold and silver joss paper. However, to minimize smoke, Bangkok has implemented a policy encouraging residents to limit incense burning. The community has responded positively, with many gradually burning only 1-2 pieces of paper at a time to prevent excessive smoke.
At the Guan Yin Shrine operated by the Thian Fah Foundation, incense burning has also been reduced, with officials collecting incense every 3-5 minutes to manage smoke levels. Worshippers have been visiting throughout the day, with a significant increase in visitors expected in the evening and the following morning. The official opening ceremony of the Yaowarat Chinese New Year Festival 2025 will be broadcast live by Channel 9 MCOT HD.
In Khon Kaen, the Chinese New Year festival has been marked by offerings at sacred sites like the City Pillar Shrine and the Pun Thao Kong-Ma Shrine. The Khon Kaen Governor has urged worshippers to moderate their use of joss paper to mitigate PM 2.5 emissions, expressing confidence that the gods and ancestors would understand the need to prevent air pollution-related illnesses.
In Phitsanulok Province, at the Pun Tao Kong-Ma Shrine, families dressed in red have been partaking in traditional worship with an abundance of offerings. This year, the shrine has introduced an auspicious worship set, including oranges paired with government lottery tickets, available for 200 baht. The province has also joined the campaign to reduce PM 2.5 dust by encouraging the limited burning of joss paper.
In Trang Province, the 'Trang Chinese New Year and Food Festival 2025' is underway at the clock tower intersection in Mueang Trang District. The event features a lion dance performance on plum blossom poles and a golden dragon breathing fire, captivating attendees. Additionally, over 160 stalls offer seafood, local products, and food, alongside cooking demonstrations, cultural performances, and exhibitions celebrating Chinese New Year legends. The festival will continue until January 29.