Hey, wanna be a part of Thai culture and get involved in their spiritual journey then Phuket Vegetarian Festival is a good option for you. Phuket Vegetarian Festival (เทศกาลกินเจภูเก็ต), also known as the Nine Emperor Gods Festival, is the most anticipated event that happens every year in Phuket.
It converts the island into a lively mix of piety, cultural patrimony and culinary adventure. This festival takes place in the 9th lunar month of the Chinese calendar, usually in September or October. It’s not about the food. What makes this festival more attractive is its intense rituals, from body piercing to fire walking; it’s all about turning the pain into spiritual devotion.
This festival gathers the community together through faith, sacrifice, and ancient tradition. It begins on the first day of the 9th lunar month and lasts for 9 days, the dates might vary according to the Chinese lunar calendar. This year it happens from October 21, 2025, to 29 October 2025 at Jui Tui Shrine, Kathu Shrine, Bang Neow Shrine, Sui Boon Tong Shrine, Sam Kong Shrine.
Whether you are a foodie or wanna know about the beliefs of Thai people and the history behind all this, you should visit the Phuket Vegetarian Festival in October. Here is the ultimate guide for you to prepare your journey to the Phuket Vegetarian Festival.
Historical and Cultural Significance
You must have been wondering what the history is behind this festival. It all started when a Chinese opera troupe visited Phuket around 1825. They fell ill because of malaria and decided to initiate a strict vegan diet and spiritual rituals honoring the Nine Emperor Gods. In Taoist belief, nine deities control life and death, and are believed to bring back luck, health, and spiritual purification.
The festival begins with welcoming the deities through a sacred ritual, and a pole is raised to invite them down from the heavens. For the next nine days, the devotees follow strict vegetarianism and perform rituals to attain blessings from the deities for themselves and their community.
Key Rituals and Ceremonies of Phuket Vegetarian Festival
Vegetarianism & Food Culture During the Festival
I know you wanna know more about the diet and food plans of the festival. During the Phuket Vegetarian Festival, food becomes the most important aspect, and it’s a central purpose of the purification and merit-making. The devotees must follow a vegetarian diet for the nine days. Here is a simple and effective food plan for you .
Where It Happens: Locations to Explore
If you are planning to explore the Phuket Vegetarian Festival and get into the spiritually stunning nine days, the whole island joins in to welcome the deities and receive their blessing. But the main event happens in Phuket Town and Kathu village.
The festival takes place in shrines like Jui Tui Shrine, Bang Neow Shrine, Sam Kong Shrine, Kathu Shrine, Sui Boon Tong Shrine. Ranong Road, Phuket Road, Kathu to Saphan Hin route, Old Town streets, Saphan Hin Park are the best places where you can stand and watch the procession.
If you want to capture the moment into your gallery or to build a memory and experience the spiritual sacrifice of a community for their health and life, you should visit these shrines and be a part of the ancient culture.
What to Expect as a Visitor
Wow! So you decided to experience one of Asia’s most intense and spiritual festivals- it’s an amazing choice. As a visitor you should know the things you’re gonna watch and experience over there.
The Phuket Vegetarian Festival is not to be considered as food exploration; rather the Spiritual sacrifices are the key aspects of the festival, like fire walking, body piercing, trance rituals, and a whole firework display. Let’s get a glimpse of what you’re about to witness.
While the festival is all about vegetarianism and eating clean to purify the body and soul, you will find hundreds of food stalls selling tasty jay foods and mimicking foods. On October 28th, you will witness Ma Song, which is meant to be conducted to drive away evil and disease. You will also see firewalking, climbing ladders made of blades, and walking across exploding firecrackers. We know it is shocking for you, but it’s all part of the ancient spiritual festival of nine days.
You must wait for the firecrackers and bring earplugs if you need to. The loud bangs of the firecrackers are meant to ward off evil spirits. The streets often fill with thick smoke, so having a light mask and scarf isn’t a bad idea.
When it comes to attire, wearing white clothes is the best option to indicate purity and respect. It would be good if you do not wear any flashy or revealing clothes.
You must not point or laugh during the ritual; it might offend the people. Avoiding alcohol, meat or engaging in impure activities while attending the ritual.
You can capture the procession and rituals in your camera, but do not shove your camera at a Ma Song’s face or block the parade routes. A quiet and minimal approach is encouraged.
How to Travel During Phuket Vegetarian Festival
Here’s what you need to know before visiting Phuket Vegetarian Festival, especially about logistics and traveling:
Phuket International Airport seems to be the better option for you to attend the festival without any rush. It is located 26 km away from north of Phuket Town and you can reach it within 30-40 minutes by car. During the festival period, the number of domestic travellers is high, so it’s good to book your flights, transport, and lodging in advance to avoid the last time rush and difficulties. Arriving there one day earlier will be a great idea, so you’ll be set to attend and experience the festival with ease.
Of course where to stay will be a major concern for you. Don’t worry here is the curated list of hotels for you to experience luxurious and comfortable stay:
- Dara Hotel
- Homa Phuket Town
- Courtyard by Marriott Phuket
- Montree Phuket Hotel
- Vapa Hotel
- Royal Phuket City Hotel
Navigation during the festival needs a bit of preparation. It is always good to stay close to the shrines where it happens. Walking is the best option for a first timer to experience the intensity and the dedication of the people.
Of course cabs and tuk-tuks can help you reach at your destination but it will be bit complicated to drive through the crowded road and there’s a chance for to close the roads due to the procession and if you are opting cabs or other transportations you should avoid drive through the Old Town core. So why not consider walking when it is the best and good option for you to experience the festival.
The festival gathers a It is considered as a celebration of a community so there are no entrance fees to visit the shrines or watch the processions during the festival. Isn’t it amazing since it’s cost free and welcoming to the people from all over the world to witness the sacred ritual.
FAQs Answered
Q.1 What is the Phuket Vegetarian Festival all about?
The Phuket Vegetarian Festival is a nine-day Taoist celebration promoting spiritual and physical cleansing through a strict vegetarian or vegan diet. Devotees observe purification rituals, abstain from meat and stimulants, and honor the Nine Emperor Gods to bring good fortune.
Q.2 Is it dangerous?
It’s not dangerous for visitors if you keep a respectful distance. While the extreme body piercing may look intense, safety measures are followed by the participants. Visitors are safe as long as they don’t interrupt or get too close during the procession.
Q.3 Is it suitable for children?
Yes, but with guidance. The cultural and culinary experiences are enriching. However, some visuals-like piercings or fire walking-may be too graphic for young children. Parents should decide based on their child’s sensitivity.
Q.4 Why do people pierce themselves?
Piercing is a form of spiritual devotion and self-mortification. Mediums (called “Ma Song”) enter a trance, believed to be possessed by deities, and perform piercings to absorb negative energies and protect the community from harm.
Q.5 What food can I eat?
You’ll find a wide range of delicious vegan and vegetarian Thai-Chinese dishes made without garlic, onion, or animal products. Look for yellow flags (เจ) indicating festival-approved food. Popular items include mock meat, noodle soups, and herbal drinks.
Q.6 Can I take part in rituals as a foreigner?
Yes, to an extent. While the more intense rituals (like piercings) are reserved for spiritual devotees, foreigners can attend ceremonies, wear white, light incense, join prayer walks, and observe customs respectfully.
Q.7 Are all restaurants closed if they don’t serve vegetarian food?
No, but many local eateries near shrines switch to vegetarian-only menus during the festival. Restaurants that don’t participate may see fewer customers but are usually open. You’ll still find options, especially in tourist-heavy areas.
Q.8 Do hotels participate in the festival?
Yes, especially those near Phuket Town. Some hotels offer vegetarian menus, shrine visit packages, or special displays. Staff may also guide guests on dress codes and viewing spots for processions.
Things to do in Phuket
- Catch the sunset at Big Buddha
Big Buddha on Nakkerd Hill offers a panoramic view of the island, especially breathtaking at sunset. Visit with us Guided Phuket City Tour: Tiger, Big Buddha, Chalong Temple
- Simon Cabaret Show Phuket
The Simon Cabaret Show is a must-see! Thailand’s most iconic ladyboy performance is a colorful, high-energy spectacle of music, dance, and costume that’ll leave you smiling from ear to ear. Wanna experience it then visit Simon Cabaret Show Phuket Tickets with Transfers
- Shop at Night Market
Naka Weekend Market is a vibrant space with local crafts, fashion, and street food. Just visit the flea market and enjoy the night full of shopping then. Visit Phuket Naka Weekend Market for booking.
- Island Hopping
Explore the stunning Phi Phi Islands on an unforgettable island-hopping adventure, filled with turquoise waters, snorkeling spots, and iconic beaches. Perfect for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike!
Similar Festivals in Thailand & Southeast Asia
If you think Phuket is the only place that holds vibrant festivals like this and celebrates. While the Phuket version of celebration is well known and recognised, other cities in Thailand and neighbouring Southeast Asian countries also host their own vibrant and unique version of celebration. Cities like Tarng, Hat Yai follow similar customs to honour the Nine Emperor Gods, but the intensity and popularity vary from Phuket.
In Malaysia (especially Penang and Kuala Lumpur) and Singapore, the Nine Emperor Gods Festival is celebrated by the Chinese Taoist communities. While the rituals align closely with those in Thailand. Phuket’s Vegetarian Festival is known for its dramatic and intense rituals — including firewalking, climbing ladders with bladed rungs, and extreme body piercings. These acts are believed to bring purification and drive away evil spirits.
Other cities and countries may tone down these displays, choosing a more symbolic or ceremonial approach. Comparatively, attending the rituals held at Phuket might be apt to experience the in depth and dedication of a community to attain health and purification. As a first timer to witness a Vegetarian Festival why do you have to miss the best opportunity and experience? Better than late, plan your first ever cultural experience with us right now without any delay.
Phuket Veg Fest Wrap-Up
The Phuket Vegetarian Festival isn’t just about food or spectacle, it’s a powerful blend of spirituality, community, and cultural identity. Whether you’re a curious traveler, a foodie, or a cultural explorer, this 9-day journey opens a window into deep-rooted traditions that are as moving as they are mesmerizing. While you’re immersing yourself in the festival’s vibrant rituals, don’t miss out on the best things to do in Phuket to complete your cultural adventure with unforgettable experiences curated by Thrillark.
