Vegetarian Festival 2026 (Thailand)
October 9 - October 18
Vegetarian Festival 2026, the annual Nine Emperor Gods Festival (九皇勝會 / เทศกาลกินเจ), is back for 10 days from 9 – 18 October 2026.
Continuing age-old traditions, a rich programme of events will unfold throughout Thailand, from the eve through to the ninth day of the ninth month in the Chinese lunar calendar. Major celebrations will take place in Phuket and Bangkok, alongside observances in communities nationwide.
Devotees will adhere to a strict vegetarian diet as an act of spiritual and physical purification, complemented by ceremonial rituals, religious street processions and cultural performances that define the festival’s distinctive atmosphere.
With origins in Taoist practices introduced to Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore by Chinese immigrants centuries ago, the Nine Emperor Gods Festival has evolved into a deeply rooted tradition and remains an enduring and significant part of Thailand’s cultural heritage.
2026 Phuket Vegetarian Festival
Phuket is the focal point of religious and celebratory activities during the Jae Festival in Thailand. Devotees observe a strict vegetarian diet as part of spiritual purification and participate in religious rituals, including fire-walking and ceremonial piercing during street processions.
Numerous Taoist shrines across the province will hold ceremonies and activities throughout the festival.
2026 Bangkok Vegetarian Festival
In Bangkok, the festival is primarily celebrated in Chinatown, Yaowarat. Preparations begin about a week in advance, as bright yellow banners and flags line the streets from Odeon Circle to Chaloem Buri Intersection, transforming the area into a festive landscape.
Religious rituals and related activities will take place at Kwang Tung Shrine, which is conveniently located near an MRT station exit.
- Event Venue: Guangdong Shrine (Kuang Siew Association of Thailand) / ศาลเจ้ากวางตุ้ง (สมาคมกว๋องสิวประเทศไทย) [Map]
- Nearest MRT station: (BL29) Wat Mangkon วัดมังกร
Throughout the festival, Bangkok’s street markets and shopping malls host lively food fairs featuring a diverse selection of vegetarian dishes, ranging from Chinese and Thai favourites to Western and Halal cuisine.
Stay tuned to this page for updates on the festival, program and schedules.
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