The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has highlighted the Phuket Vegetarian Festival 2026 as one of the important cultural events on the island from 10 to 18 October. The annual festival is locally known as Jia Chai, which is a series of shrine ceremonies, street processions and community observances where the Hokkien Chinese traditions of Phuket are celebrated.

The Iw Keng street processions (11-18 October) are a key feature of the festival, featuring the Nine Emperor Gods being paraded through Phuket City to bring blessings. As processions of flags, ceremonial signs and palanquins roll through the streets, the residents line the streets with altars. An impressive event is the Ham Si Iw Keng night procession, which takes place on 11 October and features more than 40 shrines performing a night-time display of faith and tradition.

Among the many important rituals are the Koi Han (crossing the bridge), in which koi fish are thrown across the bridge to remove misfortune, and the Koi Hoi, wherein fires are lit and walked across to cleanse one’s spirit. The festival ends on 18 October with a ritual to bid farewell to the Jade Emperor and the 9 Emperor Gods that brings visitors to Thalang Road, Phuket Road, and Surin Circle.

The visitors can also enjoy another view of the Iw Keng procession when the TAT Phuket Office will host a ceremonial reception on 16 October. The festival also offers visitors the chance to visit the historic sites, including the Pudjor Shrine, which was restored to maintain its traditional Hokkien architecture from a century ago.

The festival was recognised as intangible cultural heritage in 2018 and has been hailed as such with a Silver Grand Pinnacle Award in 2024. As a leading international port, Phuket draws tourists with its pristine beaches, rich cultural offerings, and wellness opportunities.