Celebrate with respect: The 200th Anniversary Phuket Vegetarian Festival 2025!

Celebrate with respect: The 200th Anniversary Phuket Vegetarian Festival 2025!

A very special event is just around the corner in Phuket: This Phuket Vegetarian Festival, which takes place from October 21st to 29th, 2025, is celebrating its 200th anniversary this year. This traditional festival pays homage to the deep-rooted customs and beliefs of the local population. It attracts both locals and visitors from around the world who come to enjoy its rich cultural offerings and delicious vegan cuisine.

During the nine days of the festival, ceremonies, parades and rituals are performed at various temples throughout Phuket. The Jui Tui Shrine Phuket Old Town is one of the main locations where the celebrations culminate. The opening parade traditionally begins at the Jui Tui Shrine and moves to Sapan Hin Park. The colorful floats and cultural performances are a must-see for anyone who wants to experience Thai culture up close.

Traditions and rituals

Phuket has been doing this for hundreds of yearsvegetarian fasting(Jin Je) practices. During this period, participants follow a strict vegetarian diet, exempt from meat and alcoholic beverages, and dress in white clothing, a sign of purity and spiritual devotion. The most important rituals include impressive events such as walking over hot coals and piercing the cheeks, in which the so-called Ma Song, or spirit mediums, play a central role.

The list of activities also includes the traditional city parade (Iue Keng), fire walking (Koi Hoi) and numerous temple ceremonies. These rituals have not only cultural but also spiritual meaning - they are aimed at averting misfortune (Koi Han) and honoring ancestors. Additionally, there is a variety of delicious vegetarian food available at street stalls, including fried noodles and curries.

Changes for the future

Given the current circumstances, the Phuket Am Association has decided to make some changes for this year's festival. It is recommended to reduce the volume of the parades, reduce the size of the floats and limit the use of traditional weapons. Fireworks are also strictly prohibited out of respect and sadness over the death of Queen Sirikit. These measures are intended to ensure that celebrations can take place both respectfully and safely.

I invite all festival enthusiasts to take part in these special celebrations and express their sadness appropriately. The Phuket Tourism Authority supports participants by distributing free deity medals throughout the festival to those who post photos of their involvement in the activities. The festival combines tradition and community in a unique way and at the same time promotes awareness of local culture.

Visit Phuket this festive season and let yourself be carried away by its colorful diversity and warm traditions!