Phuket's Vegetarian Festival

Annually, Phuket celebrates the Vegetarian Festival, where devotees would have to wear white and be devoted to a vegetarian diet. It is believed that this would purify them as abstinence is a test of one's self-discipline and penance. During this nine days, firecrackers are showered all over Phuket, especially during street processions, in celebration of the event, where it is thought that this drives away evil spirits. While this festival dates all the way back to 1825, it is encouraging to see that the cultures and traditions are carried on from generation to generation, and with such a strong support from the local community, it is safe to say the fire of the Vegetarian Festival is not going to be extinguished anytime soon.