This article examines how Bangkok’s Chinatown uses the Chinese Vegetarian Festival as a stage for expressing Chineseness in modern Thai society. Narut Kupthanaroj contrasts two types of organizers: government-linked groups that promote a commodified, tourism-friendly version, and local communities that emphasize historical continuity, religious meaning, and neighborhood solidarity. Both approaches reflect different visions of how Chinese identity is performed and preserved.

The coexistence of tradition and reinvention reflects Thai values spiritual faith and adaptability. The Thailand Foundation invites you to explore this vibrant festival as an expression of cultural hybridity and resilience.

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Authors: Narut Kupthanaroj

This article was published in the Rian Thai International Journal of Thai Studies and is being shared by the Thailand Foundation with permission from the Thai Studies Center, Chulalongkorn University, all rights reserved to the owner of the material.