Bangkok Vegetarian Festival

Not Just About Food

Like most Chinese-orientated festivities, food is merely a part of the whole picture – although a major one in this case. There are many reasons behind all these vegetarian eating extravaganzas. Dedicated vegetarians, most of them members of Bangkok Chinese communities, believe that the festival is an opportunity to pay respect to nine gods who descend from heaven on this occasion to absolve human beings of their sins. They also believe that only the prayers of those who practice physical abstinance throughout the nine days and nights of the festival will be anwered.

Many non-religious participants opt to go pure vegetarian for health reasons, mainly as a form of detoxification after consuming meat for long periods of time. Some also believe that by abstaining from meat for nine days, they have spared the animals from their otherwise premature deaths, thus reasoning that becoming a vegetarian is a form of making merit. And there are those who choose to be part of the festival merely for culinary enjoyment, as the variety of dishes – and their tantalising flavours and textures – is truly impressive.

Raising the Yellow Flags - Where to Experience the Bangkok Vegetarian Festival?

If you happened to be in Bangkok during the festival, which usually falls in October, you will feel the vegan vibe no matter where you go, as nearly every street comes alive with fluttering yellow flags. When you see one of these flags, it means that particular restaurant or food vendor offers a vegan menu.

For a full-on experience, however, Chinatown is where to go. Be warned, though, that things get somewhat crowded, so it is wise to wear light but polite clothing. Begin your journey at a Chinese temple, whether the Lengnoeiyi Temple on Charoen Krung Street or the Tai Hong Kong shrine, located at the Ruamkatanyu Foundation on Sam Yan intersection. Here, you can pray or just observe how other worshippers undergo a ritual to pledge themselves to the gods. When all the giant incense sticks have been lit, the Vegetarian Festival has officially begun.

If you prefer to keep away from religious ceremonies, then head straight to the Chinatown Gate, located at the Odeon roundabout. Here, the entire Yaowaraj Street lies ahead, beckoning you with all its spetacles. Colourful street performances and Chinese operas are a regular sight, while yellow flags flutter at nearly every food stall. But before settling down for one huge meal, it is wise to explore the area first. The best approach, perhaps, is to grab a small bite as you walk along. Whichever aproach you decide to use, be sure to skip all the seasonings before digging in – not even a drop of fish sauce or chilli oil. Otherwise, bon appetit!

When: Ninth Chinese Lunar Month (usually October)
Where: Yaowaraj (Chinatown)