Residents and tourists watched as the spectacular parade of Ma Song – those who will allow spirits to possess them, mortal mediums – and their devotees and statues of the gods passed by.
Tables covered with offerings for the gods were set up in front of residents homes along the procession route to greet the gods as they passed.
Lost in trances while their gods has taken over their bodies, the Ma Song displayed their power by mortifying their flesh with axes, maces and a variety of artefacts inserted through cuts in their cheeks or hung by hooks from the chests or backs.
In accordance with the festival’s tradition, suffering for those who fast during the festival is believed to be good luck.
The processions continue today, with devotees from the Samkong Shrine and six other smaller shrines joining together to parade through the streets.
Although the use of firecrackers is considered tradition during the festival, the Phuket Provincial Police and Phuket City Municipality have called on all people taking part to enjoy the festival safely, and urged all participants to avoid using large and dangerous firecrackers or fireworks, which can be dangerous.
For a full guide of the Phuket Vegetarian Festival festivities, click here.