The Phuket Vegetarian Festival, officially known as the "Eating Vegetables Festival," aligns with the literal translation of the Chinese term "jieh chai."

During the annual Vegetarian Festival, each Chinese temple (Aam) in Phuket and its residents participate in a variety of activities. I have selected a schedule of some interesting activities and ceremonies for your reference to experience the Vegetarian Festival in 2016.

The Ko Teng pole-raising ceremony, which marks the beginning of the Phuket Vegetarian Festival, will take place on September 30, 2016, between 3 and 5 p.m. at every shrine in Phuket. You can attend the ceremony at any shrine near you.

The Eiew Geang Ceremony, or the Procession of the Deity around the City, is another must-see event during the Phuket Vegetarian Festival. Along the streets of Phuket, locals set up altars to await the visit and blessings of the deity, the Nine Emperor Gods. During the procession, mediums in the parade demonstrate various supernatural abilities. The main temples in Phuket, Bang Niang Shrine, Jui Tui Shrine, Kathu Shrine, and Lo Rong Shrine, will hold processions on October 6, 7, 8, and 9, 2016, respectively. The procession can be viewed at the Clock Tower (Surin Circle). The procession departs from the temples at 6:00 AM for Bang Niang Shrine, 8:09 AM for Jui Tui Shrine, 6:45 AM for Kathu Shrine, and 7:00 AM for Lo Rong Shrine.

The procession route map provided by the TAT Phuket Office is shown below.

**The Goose Crossing Ceremony, also known as the "Bad Luck Removal Ceremony,"** is held at each shrine. Participants walk across a bridge and receive a stamp from a monk on their clothes. Many people wear the same clothes that were stamped in previous years, as if it were a collection. The ceremony is held on the last day of the Vegetarian Festival, symbolizing a new life for those who have observed the precepts during the festival. Almost every shrine holds the Goose Crossing Ceremony in the afternoon or evening of October 9, 2016, before the Sending-off-the-Deities Ceremony (some shrines may hold it one day in advance).

The Farewell Ceremony of the Nine Emperor Gods

The Nine Emperor Gods Farewell Ceremony, also known as the Sending the Gods Ceremony, takes place on the night of October 9th, marking the final day of the Phuket Vegetarian Festival. This ceremony signifies the return of the Nine Emperor Gods to heaven.

During the ceremony, shrines organize processions carrying the deities' statues through various streets in Phuket. The processions typically culminate at Saphan Hin Bridge (except for shrines located outside the city center, which may have different ending points).

Large crowds gather along the procession routes to pay their respects and send off the deities. The night is filled with the sound of firecrackers, welcoming the Nine Emperor Gods back to heaven. This ceremony is a significant event in Phuket, drawing a large number of participants each year.

The processions begin in the evening and conclude at Saphan Hin Bridge late at night on October 9th, 2016, marking the official end of the Vegetarian Festival for the general public.

For more information, please refer to:

Phuket Vegetarian Festival

Phuket Vegetarian Festival: Traditions and Schedule

Traditions:

• Nine Emperor Gods: The festival honors the Nine Emperor Gods, believed to descend from the heavens to bless and cleanse the community.
• Vegetarian Diet: Participants abstain from meat and animal products for nine days, symbolizing purification and respect for life.
• Body Piercings: Devotees pierce their cheeks and bodies with various objects, demonstrating their devotion and seeking blessings.
• Fire Walking: Participants walk barefoot on burning coals, showcasing their faith and resilience.
• Opera Performances: Chinese opera troupes perform throughout the festival, entertaining and engaging the community.

Schedule:

• First Day: The festival begins with the opening ceremony, hoisting of the Nine Emperor Gods' flags, and the start of the vegetarian diet.
• Second to Eighth Day: Daily rituals include processions, prayers, and offerings to the gods. Opera performances and cultural events take place throughout the day.
• Ninth Day: The festival culminates with the closing ceremony, the sending-off of the Nine Emperor Gods, and the breaking of the vegetarian diet.

Note: Dates for the festival vary each year based on the lunar calendar.

Vegetarian Festival 2016

The Vegetarian Festival in Phuket: A Feast for the Senses

The Vegetarian Festival in Phuket is a vibrant celebration of Chinese culture and tradition. During this nine-day festival, participants abstain from meat and engage in various rituals to purify their bodies and minds. The streets come alive with colorful parades, elaborate offerings, and the tantalizing aroma of vegetarian cuisine.

While the festival's origins can be traced back centuries, its popularity has grown significantly in recent years. Today, a large number of Phuket residents observe the entire nine days of vegetarianism, compared to the past when people typically participated for one, three, or five days. This surge in participation has led to a proliferation of vegetarian food stalls and restaurants throughout the city, particularly in the downtown area. During the festival, yellow flags are prominently displayed outside these establishments, signaling their commitment to serving vegetarian fare.

The Vegetarian Festival in Phuket is a unique and captivating experience that offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the island. From the mesmerizing rituals to the delectable vegetarian dishes, this festival is a feast for the senses and a testament to the enduring traditions of the Chinese community in Phuket.

Vegetarian food has evolved significantly in recent times. While it was once limited to simple dishes made with vegetables and flour, modern vegetarian cuisine incorporates processed ingredients like flour and protein extracts to mimic the texture and taste of real meat. Seasoned appropriately, these dishes can closely resemble their non-vegetarian counterparts. Some may argue that indulging in the "form and taste" of meat contradicts the principles of vegetarianism. However, from the perspective of minimizing harm to other living beings, making vegetarian food more accessible could encourage wider participation in the tradition, potentially leading to a greater reduction in the consumption of animal products. Therefore, regardless of the methods employed, if they contribute to saving more lives, they can be considered beneficial.

Let's get straight to the point. There are so many vegetarian restaurants in Phuket these days that it can be overwhelming to choose where to eat, especially for those visiting from other provinces. This review will introduce you to some of the best vegetarian restaurants in Phuket, most of which I frequent myself. Some of these restaurants I only visit during the Vegetarian Festival, while there are a couple I haven't had the chance to try during the festival yet, but my fellow food enthusiasts assure me they are just as delicious. So, let's dive in!

Ging Liu is a vegetarian restaurant that serves vegetarian dishes all year round. During the Vegetarian Festival, the restaurant is especially busy.

Krating Liu's specialty is its à la carte menu, featuring a wide variety of single-dish meals at moderate prices. It also offers unique vegetarian dishes that are hard to find elsewhere, such as vegetarian pizza.

Kopi de Phuket: A Culinary and Cultural Gem

Kopi de Phuket, a renowned restaurant and café in Phuket, boasts a rich history and a distinct Chinese-inspired ambiance. During the annual Vegetarian Festival, the establishment transforms into a haven for delectable vegan cuisine, offering a diverse menu of tempting dishes.

One of Kopi's unique features is its strategic location along the route of grand religious processions from major temples, including the spectacular "Sending the Deities Back to Heaven" ceremony. This prime position makes it an ideal spot to witness these vibrant cultural events while savoring delicious food.

Khao Kaeng Go Tha Wat Thep is a roadside khao kaeng restaurant that I frequent during the Vegetarian Festival. The restaurant offers a wide variety of dishes at affordable prices, and the food is delicious and flavorful. It is no wonder that the restaurant is always packed with customers during the festival.

The Mango Tree Restaurant: A Local Favorite for Delicious and Affordable Thai Cuisine

The Mango Tree Restaurant is a bustling eatery known for its wide variety of flavorful and affordable Thai dishes. While I primarily visit for breakfast, I'm unsure if they also offer lunch service.

Beyond the extensive menu, the restaurant boasts delicious food and friendly prices. For those who prefer something lighter, rice noodles are also available. However, it's important to note that this review excludes the restaurant's vegetarian offerings, as I haven't personally tried them.

Despite this, friends have voted The Mango Tree Restaurant as a top choice for vegetarian cuisine, leading me to include it in this recommendation. Based on the overall quality and popularity, I believe their vegetarian dishes are likely to be equally delicious.

Richy: A Phuket Staple for Delicious and Healthy Vegetarian Cuisine

Richy is a long-standing establishment in Phuket, offering a comfortable, air-conditioned dining experience. The restaurant prioritizes using fresh, pesticide-free ingredients, making it a favorite among health-conscious individuals.

During the vegetarian festival, Richy's menu boasts an array of delectable dishes, including sun-dried mushrooms, spicy mock duck curry, and assorted vegetarian dips. These mouthwatering options are sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more.

Lemongrass: A Culinary Gem in Lime Light Avenue

Nestled within the vibrant Lime Light Avenue, a renowned community mall near Phuket's historic district, lies Lemongrass, a restaurant exuding elegance and sophistication. Beyond its aesthetically pleasing décor, Lemongrass tantalizes taste buds with an exceptional selection of vegan dishes, each bursting with flavor and creativity.

Dok Bua is a vegetarian restaurant that I have yet to try. Every time I drive by, it seems to be full of customers. Many of my friends also recommend it when discussing delicious vegetarian options during the annual vegan festival. I have added it to my list of places to try, and I will provide more information once I have had the opportunity to dine there.

The coordinates of the vegetarian restaurant next to the tree can be found in the link below.

https://drive.google.com/open?id=1hQQFgt7xS27zVmWV-q3uSQN2IHA&usp=sharing

Besides the aforementioned shops, there are many other famous restaurants in Phuket that offer vegetarian food, adapting it from their regular menus. This year, some restaurants have already started promoting their vegetarian menus. I haven't had the chance to try them yet, but I'm sure the taste will be just as good as the regular dishes. These restaurants include:

• Khanom Jeen Khun Or: This restaurant specializes in Khanom Jeen, a type of rice noodle dish.
• Ruan Pisek: This restaurant offers a variety of Thai dishes, including vegetarian options.
• Gin Suk: This restaurant focuses on healthy and delicious food, with a selection of vegetarian dishes.
• Salee Restaurant: This restaurant is known for its seafood, but also offers vegetarian options.

For those who are planning to visit Phuket during the Vegetarian Festival, be sure to check out these recommended restaurants. You won't be disappointed!