Gazette’s Vegetarian Festival’s must sees [video]

PHUKET: As the sun sets on Phuket on October 12, all Chinese shrines taking part in the annual Vegetarian Festival will raise their go-teng poles so that the Jade Emperor, among the Nine Emperor Gods, can descend from the heavens, heralding the beginning of this year’s event.

It can all be overwhelming for first timers. So, here at the Gazette, we’ve made things simpler. Check out what made our ‘must-see’ list this year.

PROCESSIONS

The festival’s processions are an intense experience and not for the fainthearted. Onlookers will see graphic facial piercings and will be surrounded by thousands of exploding firecrackers (the louder the better, to ward off evil spirits). Needless to say, it is an experience of a lifetime. However, if there is one procession not to miss, it is the final parade on the last day of the festival. Bring a face mask and ear plugs!

October 18: Bang Neow Shrine, Phuket Town (departure at 7am)

October 19: Jui Tui Shrine, Phuket Town (departure at 8am)

October 20: Kathu Shrine, Kathu Town (departure at 7am)

October 21: Gather at the heart of Phuket Old Town as processions from the major shrines head to Saphan Hin to bid farewell to the Nine Emperor Gods. (Best to be on the streets by 10pm.)

FIRE WALKING AND BLADED LADDERS

This part of the festival is less chaotic, but just as mesmerizing. Look on as ma song walk across burning coals and climb ladders with bladed steps.

October 18: Ban Tha Rue Shrine (8pm)

October 20: Bang Neow Shrine (8pm)

PIERCINGS

If you are feeling adventurous and want to see the piercing process, attend a shrine an hour or so before their procession starts and watch as the ma song are ceremoniously skewered.