The biggest event marking the raising of the Go Teng poles was at Jui Tui Shrine in Phuket Town, with many believers and Phuket Governor Chamroen Tipayapongtada in attendance.
Gov Chamroen earlier yesterday attended a ceremony at the Bang Niew Shrine, also in Phuket Town, where he announced details of the scheduled events for the Vegetarian Festival this year, to be held from October 13-21.
Joining Gov Chamroen were Phuket Shrine Association President Prasert Phakthongphol, Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Phuket office Director Anoma Wongyai and Phuket City Mayor Somjai Suwansupapana.
“This is the 190th Vegetarian Festival held on the island,” Gov Chamreon noted. “The festival has long been passed on from generation to generation.
“During the festival, people are asked to wear white and participate in the festivities and activities that many shrines offer.
“As usual, many activities are scheduled for the event, including merit-making ceremonies for HM King Bhumibol Adulyadej, and the usual hot-oil bathing and fire-walking rituals.
“Also during the festival this year, people will have the chance to sign their name in a book of best wishes that will be presented to HM The King for his 88th birthday on December 5,” he added.
Gov Chamroen called for all people taking part in the festival to make safety and health a top priority.
“Safety is a top priority, from food to fireworks, for us all,” he said. “Only clean, quality food is to be sold or provided as part of the festival.
“Also, everyone must be careful with firecrackers and fireworks, and those who sell them must follow the law and not sell illegal firecrackers or fireworks” Gov Chamroen said.
For the special reports by The Phuket News on the scheduled events for this year's Phuket Vegetarian festival, click here and here.