THE Phuket Colorful Countdown 2009 is being held for the first time, with a parade, fireworks and music every day from Christmas Day to New Year's Day.

Festivities centre around Surin Circle, the roundabout at the Metropole Hotel in Phuket City, where local foods will be on sale with concerts and performances of different kinds every evening.

Christmas Night 7pm Opening ceremony, fireworks, and a symphony concert by an orchestra of 32 musicians.

December 26, 7pm-10pm Dancing performances and a DJ, with a Color of Origin light show.

December 27, 7pm-9.50pm A cultural show, with traditional dancing, singing and DJs.

December 28, 7pm-11pm The show is titled the Color of Civilisation and includes models in traditional Phuket dress and a display of the old culture of Phuket.

December 29, 7pm-10.50pm The show is titled the Color of Melody and includes a cabaret performance.

December 30, 7pm-10.50pm The Color of Travel takes the audience on a trip with many activities on stage and sponsors' offerings.

December 31, 6.30pm-1.40am A spectacular show to see in the New Year involving fashion, music and models. Highlights include a pop concert. From 10.30pm, the countdown to midnight becomes seriously happy. A concert follows from midnight by Thai superstars Bem Kavee and Flim Rattaphum.

The countdown has been organised for the first time by the Phuket City tessaban and Orborjor.