Phuket Festival Brings Colour and Crowds Despite Rain

Picture courtesy of The Phuket News

Phuket erupts with vibrant celebrations despite rain as the annual Vegetarian Festival continues, featuring colourful street processions led by devotees from 39 Chinese shrines. The festival, promoting spiritual cleansing, began on October 19 with the raising of Go Teng poles to invite the Nine Emperor Gods. Processions commenced on October 21, showcasing spirit mediums who pierce their cheeks in a ritual believed to absorb misfortune.

The festival attracts both locals and tourists, generating over 22 billion baht for the local economy. Homes along the procession routes set up altars for blessings, while large crowds joined in, undeterred by rain. Officials caution that traffic disruptions will persist during the nine-day event, urging motorists to plan accordingly.

Commencing early in the morning, parades were led by devotees from Guan Yu Shrine and Jchoor Su Gong Naka Shrine, showcasing dramatic displays of devotion through cheek piercing. This annual event not only highlights cultural traditions but also significantly boosts Phuket’s tourism and economy.

The festival will culminate on October 29 with expansive firework displays and farewell processions, marking the end of the spiritual celebrations. Upcoming events include various processions and fire-walking ceremonies at multiple shrines, each drawing crowds eager to partake in unique cultural experiences.

Key Takeaways

• Phuket's Vegetarian Festival continues despite rain, drawing large crowds.
• The event is expected to generate over 22 billion baht for the economy.
• The festival concludes with fireworks and farewell processions on October 29.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-10-23