Tourism Authority of ThailandThe Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is spotlighting the Phuket Vegetarian Festival 2026, scheduled from 10 to 18 October, as a significant cultural event on the island. Known locally as Jia Chai, this annual festival immerses visitors in the Hokkien Chinese traditions of Phuket through a series of shrine ceremonies, street processions, and community observances.
Central to the festival are the Iw Keng street processions, occurring from 11 to 18 October, where the Nine Emperor Gods are paraded through Phuket City to impart blessings. Residents line the streets with altars as processions of flags, ceremonial signs, and palanquins pass by. A highlight is the Ham Si Iw Keng night procession on 11 October, involving over 40 shrines in a night-time display of faith and tradition.
Key rituals include the Koi Han bridge-crossing, symbolising the cleansing of misfortune, and the Koi Hoi fire-walking, an act of spiritual purification. The festival concludes on 18 October with farewell rituals for the Jade Emperor and the Nine Emperor Gods, drawing crowds along Thalang Road, Phuket Road, and Surin Circle.
On 16 October, the TAT Phuket Office will host a ceremonial reception for the Iw Keng procession, offering another vantage point for visitors. The festival also provides opportunities to explore historic shrines like the century-old Pudjor Shrine, recently restored to preserve its traditional Hokkien architecture.
Recognised as intangible cultural heritage in 2018, the festival has received accolades, including a Silver Grand Pinnacle Award in 2024. Phuket, a major international gateway, continues to attract visitors with its blend of beaches, culture, and wellness experiences.
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