Trang:The Vegetarian Festival has officially started in Trang province with the raising of the Tengko pole, a significant tradition for Thai people of Chinese descent. Participants, dressed in white, gathered at the Kiu Ong Eia Shrine to witness the ceremony, despite disruptions caused by flooding in some areas.

According to Thai News Agency, the Tengko pole, also known as the "Pole of the Gods," was raised at 935 AM, symbolizing the invitation of the nine deities to the shrine. This ritual marks the official beginning of the festival, which will run from October 9th to 18th, 2026. The festival is a long-standing tradition in Trang Province, celebrated for over 240 years.

In Nakhon Ratchasima city, residents began their day by consuming vegetarian meals, undeterred by increased prices due to flooding. The festival provides a chance to reduce meat consumption and make merit. Some restaurants are maintaining prices despite rising costs and are offering free steamed buns to the first 200 customers from October 10-18, 2026.

Meanwhile, in Satun, people continue to observe a vegetarian diet despite high vegetable prices caused by flooding and fuel price increases. The community is preparing vegetarian meals to participate in the festival, which emphasizes cleansing the body and mind. The festival continues until October 18, 2026, with the raising of the Kote Teng pole marking its commencement.