Performing the ‘Iu Keng’ ceremony, devotees began their traditional procession, starting at 7:30am.
The route passed through various roads in Phuket Town, leading to the tip of Saphan Hin Cape, where locals and tourists gathered to witness the event.
During the procession, spirit mediums, both men and women, performed ritualistic acts by piercing their cheeks and bodies with sharp weapons.
The practice, deeply rooted in the festival’s traditions, symbolises the absorption of bad luck and suffering on behalf of those who follow the strict vegetarian diet observed during the festival.
The streets today were lined with residents and visitors eager to receive blessings from the passing procession.
Many homes and businesses along the route had prepared tables to welcome the procession, which featured a palanquin carrying the sacred image, along with firecrackers set off in its honour.
Large crowds gathered at key locations such as Surin Circle (the Clocktower Circle). The event included a series of traditional elements, including a smaller palanquin, known as Tai Phee, followed by Niu Siu (Chinese umbrellas) and a larger palanquin, called Tua Lian, which housed the image of Kiew Ong Tai Te.
Also taking to the streets this morning were devotees from the Guan Yu Shrine in Baan Nabon, making their way through the Palai area in Chalong from 7am.
The street processions continue tomorrow, with the following shrines to hold their parades:
- Lim Hu Tai Shrine, 6:45am
- Guan Yu Shrine (Baan Nabon) at Kata-Karon, 7:00am
- Tai Houd Ting Shrine, 8:00am
- Bu Seng Toon Shrine, 8:30am
- Ngore Choon Gend Baanya Shrine, 7:30am
- Sam Tiang Tong Shrine, 7:00am
- Thee Gong Tua Shrine, 7:00am
For the full ‘Official schedule for the Phuket Vegetarian Festival’, click here.