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Honouring Ancestors
The Por Tor Festival in Phuket
Phuket Island comes alive with the vibrant celebration of Por Tor, also known as the Hungry Ghost Festival. This traditional festival, observed on the 15th day of the seventh lunar month in the Chinese calendar, takes place this year from August 19th to September 6th, 2025 .
The island’s Thai-Chinese community honours their ancestors during this time, believing their spirits return to earth. The name “Hungry Ghost Festival” originates from the custom of preparing elaborate feasts, not only for family ancestors but also for wandering spirits who have no descendants to venerate them.
Central to the Por Tor Festival is the profound importance of ancestor worship. By offering food, devotees hope to receive good fortune and good health in return.
Altars laden with delicious food, colourful fruits, and tempting desserts are set up in homes.Many families also place additional offerings at the back of their houses, inviting lost and family-less souls to partake in the feast.
The Ang Ku: A Symbol of Longevity and Prosperity
Among the multitude of delicacies prepared, red tortoise-shaped cakes called Ang Ku hold special significance. Made with wheat flour and sugar, they come in various sizes. The tortoise, a symbol of strength and longevity in Chinese culture, and the colour red, representing fortune, imbue these cakes with special meaning.
Phuket Comes Alive with Por Tor Festivities
While festivities take place throughout Phuket during Por Tor, two locations stand out for their vibrancy: the market on Ranong Road and the Sek Tel Bel Chinese Temple on Phuket Road. Alongside stalls brimming with food and Ang Ku cakes, colourful parades of Thai-Chinese people in traditional costumes and a variety of performances bring these iconic locations to life.
Practical Tips:
As with the Kathu Festival, it is advisable to dress modestly and bring an umbrella when attending the Por Tor Festival.
