Vegetarian Festival begins across Thailand amid rising living costs

The annual Vegetarian Festival has commenced across various regions in Thailand, including Nakhon Ratchasima and Chiang Mai, drawing significant crowds for both religious observance and economic relief.

In Nakhon Ratchasima, local vendors are maintaining low starting prices of 35 baht per meal to assist consumers facing rising costs for vegetables and ingredients caused by recent flooding. Some businesses are also offering promotional items, such as free auspicious steamed buns, to celebrate the tradition.

In Chiang Mai, the Pung Tao Kong Shrine has seen large numbers of residents arriving with tiffin carriers to receive free vegetarian meals from community food stalls. Organizers noted that the increased turnout reflects a need for residents to manage high living costs during a period of economic stagnation. To reduce waste, the shrine has implemented a policy to avoid using plastic bags for food distribution.