Purify one’s mind with Thailand Vegetarian Festival

Purify one’s mind with Thailand Vegetarian Festival

Text by: Fabian Ooi / Photos Courtesy of Tourism Authority of Thailand - 14 October 2023

Tourism Authority of Thailand

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The Vegetarian Festival in Thailand is a traditional event celebrated by the Thai-Chinese community. It is also known as the Nine Emperor Gods Festival and is observed during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar, typically falling between September and October. The festival lasts for nine days and is especially popular in regions with a significant Chinese population, such as Bangkok, Phuket, Hat Yai and Chiang Mai.

Bangkok-Yaowarat RoadPhuket Vegetarian Festival

During the Vegetarian Festival, devotees will abstain from consuming meat and other animal products, while some may even avoid consuming certain vegetables and fruits. The purpose of this abstention is to purify the body and mind and show respect to the Nine Emperor Gods, deities from Taoist mythology believed to descend to Earth during the festival.

The festival is marked by various rituals and ceremonies, including processions, temple ceremonies, distinctive face-paint parades through the streets and the piercing of the body with sharp objects. Some devotees perform acts of self-mortification, such as walking barefoot on burning coals or piercing their cheeks with swords and other items as an act of spiritual devotion and to show gratitude for blessings received.

Pattani-Chao Mae Lim Ko Niao ShrineCelebrate Vegetarian Festival

The Vegetarian Festival is a unique cultural event that showcases the country’s diverse heritage and religious beliefs. It attracts both local and international spectators who come to witness the spectacle and experience the rich traditions and customs associated with this annual celebration.

Phuket Vegetarian Festival

For more information: please visit:
Website: https://tourismthailand.my/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TourismThailandMalaysia 
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tourismthailandkl/

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